Assistant Director of Operations

The Assistant Director of Operations oversees all business and operational functions of the Institute for Human Ecology, including budget management, financial operations, compliance, and administrative systems. This position ensures the Institute operates efficiently and in full compliance with university policies and external regulations, enabling its academic and programmatic mission to thrive.

Consequently, the IHE is seeking an individual who is eminently trustworthy and reliable; understands the importance of properly stewarding the IHE’s resources; is ready to take initiative and to work independently; has good judgment; is positive, enthusiastic, and works well with others; is self-motivated, hard-working, and able to work without constant supervision; has strong organizational abilities and attention to detail; and is strongly motivated by the IHE’s mission to bring the truth of the Catholic intellectual tradition to the Catholic University campus and the wider public square.

The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, resourceful, and responsible, embodying the Institute’s patron virtues of wisdom, humility, and charity as we strive to foster open dialogue, intellectual friendship, and moral clarity.

• Manage the Institute's annual operating budget, including forecasting, monitoring expenditures, and financial reporting
• Oversee and approve all financial operations, including purchasing, requisitions, contracts, invoicing, payment requests, and expense reconciliation
• Serve as primary liaison with the university's finance, procurement, and grants administration offices
• Ensure compliance with university policies, federal regulations, and grant requirements
• Develop and implement operational policies, procedures, and systems to improve efficiency and stewardship of IHE resources
• Manage office operations, including facilities, equipment, supplies, and technology needs
• Prepare financial reports and presentations for the Executive Director and university leadership
• Support grant proposal development with budget preparation and institutional approvals
• Coordinate with university IT, HR, and other administrative departments
• Manage vendor relationships and negotiate contracts for services in accordance with university policy

Formal Education

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Public Administration, or related field; Master's degree preferred (CPA or MBA)

 Practical Experience:

• Minimum 3-5 years of progressive experience in operations, finance, or business management
• Strong understanding of budgeting, financial management, and grant administration
• Experience with higher education finance and administrative systems preferred
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Strong organizational and project management abilities
• Proficiency in financial software, database management, and Microsoft Office Suite
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and with diverse stakeholders