US Chess Seeks a Director of Operations

Director of Operations
Full Time, 40 hours/week (Exempt)
St. Louis, Missouri (hybrid possible)

Position Overview: Reporting to the Executive Director, the Director of Operations oversees the day-to-day operations of the organization, ensuring that it runs efficiently and that all members of the team have what they need to succeed (such as equipment, supplies, accurate records, and a safe and supportive work environment). The Director of Operations also coordinates communication and information flow among and between stakeholders, which includes executive management, the US Chess Executive Board, staff, members, donors, and others within the broader chess community.

Responsibilities include:

• Provides oversight of US Chess Membership, HR, Accounting, and IT functions.
• Reviews, analyzes, and evaluates policies and procedures, communicates changes to stakeholders, and leads implementation efforts as directed. Makes recommendations to the Executive Director on continuous quality improvement opportunities.
• Serves as US Chess’s primary point of contact for complaints related to its Safe Play guidelines and other formal complaint processes within US Chess.
• Monitors and forecasts budgets by department.
• Identifies policy and procedural changes that will improve membership service and customer satisfaction.  
• Manages HR, including compensation, benefits, hiring practices, compliance, and professional development opportunities.
• Manages and maintains contracts. Manages vendors and associated contracts and agreements.
• Provides support to the Executive Director, such as scheduling meetings and responding to inquiries. Triages information from department heads for the Executive Director’s consideration/action. Represents Executive Director upon request.
• Manages grant management to ensure that (a) accurate and timely financial and project reports are made in line with grant requirements; and (b) grant applications, reports and other administrative practices are prepared and submitted on a timely basis.
• Develops annual performance goals and activities in alignment with the US Chess strategic plan.
• Manages the US Chess office in St. Louis, Missouri.
• Knowledge of the game of chess and the chess community a plus, but not required.

General

• Communicates organizational policies, trends, and status to the entire US Chess staff.
• Maintains open communications with the Executive Director and department leads for efficient operations.  
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities

• Experience with nonprofit operations and finance.
• Experience with HR, including performance management, and compliance.
• Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills.
• Success with management of people.
• Proficiency with the Microsoft Office Suite, Quickbooks Online, and CRM packages. 
• Highly ethical and collaborative leader.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree: Business, Nonprofit Management, or other similar degree (preferred).
• 5 or more years’ operational leadership experience with a nonprofit organization.

US Chess provides a competitive salary and benefits package.

US Chess headquarters is located in St. Louis Union Station, close to all major downtown attractions. We are accessible by MetroLink and provide paid parking for our employees.  

To apply, submit your cover letter, resume, and the names/contact information for 3 professional references to Carol Meyer (Click here to show email address).

June 2023