Senior Operations Manager

Keller Executive Search • Chicago, IL

17h

About The Position

This is a position within Keller Executive Search and not with one of its clients. The Senior Operations Manager in Chicago builds strong operational governance for Operations, partnering with stakeholders to improve performance, quality, and candidate and client experience.

Requirements

• Excellent communication skills in English; additional local language capability is an advantage.
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or professional certification preferred.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in Operations leadership roles, including people management.
• Experience managing budgets, vendors, and complex initiatives end-to-end.
• Proven ability to set strategy and deliver measurable outcomes in a fast-paced professional services environment.
• Data-driven approach with comfort using metrics, reporting, and process improvement methods.

Responsibilities

• Manage budgets, vendors, and resource planning for the Operations function.
• Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing team, setting clear goals and accountability.
• Partner with sales, delivery, research, and leadership teams to streamline workflows and remove friction.
• Identify risks and implement controls to protect service quality, data, and reputation.
• Establish KPIs, dashboards, and operating rhythms to track outcomes and drive continuous improvement.
• Define and execute the Operations strategy aligned with business priorities and service standards.
• Present insights and recommendations to leadership, translating data into practical action.

Benefits

• Salary range: 125,000 - 170,000
• Opportunities for professional growth through leadership development and high-visibility projects.
• Flat management structure with direct access to decision-makers.
• Open communication environment.
• Full medical coverage.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 51-100 employees