[GACC - Colorado Chapter] Operations Director

German-American Chamber of Commerce, Colorado Chapter•Denver, CO

5d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Operations Director serves as the operational backbone for a small but growing organization and is responsible for ensuring the organization's day-to-day activities, projects, systems, finances, and internal operations function effectively and efficiently. Working closely with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, and external partners, this role ensures organizational priorities are translated into action and successfully executed across all departments. The Operations Director helps create alignment, accountability, and operational discipline while supporting a collaborative and mission-driven culture. This role ensures the organization’s internal operations, finances, systems, people processes, and cross-functional execution run effectively while supporting sustainable organizational growth. The ideal candidate is highly organized, process-oriented, proactive, and capable of balancing strategic thinking with hands-on execution. The Operations Director serves as the organization's Integrator and provides direct leadership and coordination for the Experiences & Events, Treffpunkt & Real Estate, and Communications & Marketing functions.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Management, Operations, Finance, Human Resources, or related field
Minimum 5 years of operations, project management, administration, or organizational leadership experience
Experience managing multiple priorities and projects simultaneously
Strong financial management and budgeting experience
Excellent organizational and analytical skills
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Demonstrated ability to build systems, processes, and structure
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment

Nice To Haves

Experience within a nonprofit, chamber, association, or membership-based organization
Experience with EOS or similar business operating systems
Experience with CRM platforms and operational software
German language skills
International business or intercultural experience
Experience managing vendors, consultants, and external service providers

Responsibilities

Lead implementation of the organization's strategic priorities and annual goals
Coordinate execution of cross-functional initiatives and projects
Facilitate organizational planning processes and follow-up activities
Track progress against key priorities and organizational objectives
Assist the Executive Director in ensuring organizational alignment and accountability
Identify operational challenges and recommend solutions
Support implementation of EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System)-inspired operating principles and meeting cadence
Oversee and continuously improve day-to-day operations
Develop and maintain operational policies, procedures, and best practices
Create and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs)
Improve efficiency and effectiveness across departments
Coordinate organizational resources and operational support functions
Monitor operational performance and recommend improvements
Maintain organizational calendars, planning tools, and project tracking systems
Facilitate weekly leadership meetings and follow-up actions
Oversee and manage 2-4 FTE
Track organizational priorities, projects, and action items
Support accountability across departments
Help establish and maintain organizational KPIs and scorecards
Coordinate communication between departments and leadership
Assist with performance management and organizational planning activities
Lead preparation and monitoring of annual budgets in partnership with the Executive Director, Treasurer, and external accounting partners
Track organizational income, expenses, and financial performance
Develop and maintain departmental budgets and cost centers
Monitor cash flow and financial health
Prepare monthly financial and operational reports
Oversee invoicing, payments, and vendor administration
Support audits, tax filings, and financial compliance requirements
Identify opportunities for cost savings and operational efficiencies
Manage employee onboarding and offboarding processes
Coordinate recruitment and hiring activities
Administer employee benefits programs
Maintain employee records and HR compliance
Lead the organization's performance management process, including goal setting, employee development, coaching, and performance reviews in partnership with departmental leaders and the Executive Director.
Assist with employee training and professional development initiatives
Maintain employee handbook and HR policies
Support a positive and collaborative organizational culture
Manage and improve organizational technology infrastructure
Oversee CRM, membership, and operational systems
Coordinate external IT providers and technology vendors
Lead implementation of new technology solutions
Identify opportunities for automation and process improvement
Promote cybersecurity awareness and compliance
Lead organizational digital transformation initiatives
Coordinate Board meeting logistics and administration
Prepare Board materials and supporting documentation
Maintain compliance with nonprofit regulations and reporting requirements
Coordinate annual filings and organizational reporting
Manage business insurance programs and renewals
Maintain organizational records and documentation
Oversee risk management and internal controls
Attend and support key GACC Colorado events
Assist with event operations as required
Support membership initiatives and member engagement activities
Coordinate operational support for major programs and events
Collaborate with event and membership teams to improve member experience
Contribute beyond primary area of responsibility and actively support major organizational initiatives, events, and cross-functional priorities.