Operations Manager

ECF’s Operations Manager has a broad range of responsibilities to support the office to run smoothly. A broad skillset is required, with responsibilities including leading IT support, human resources administrative management, and office policies and procedure oversight. The individual in this role oversees day-to-day operations and ensures all departments have what they need to run most efficiently. They oversee an intern, and collaborate frequently with the Accounting Manager, Database Associate, and report to the Chief Operating Officer (COO). The position requires initiative, growth mindedness, proficient organization and project management skills, and an ability to manage a broad range of projects to support the furthering of ECF’s mission.

Reporting Responsibility: Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Staffing Responsibility: Intern

Primary Responsibilities

OPERATIONS

• Oversee and act as project manager for office move (Sept 2025) with the support of the COO
• Ensure smooth daily operations in the office
• Order supplies and create a streamlined system based on inventory projections
• Maintain vendor relationships to ensure smooth ordering and delivery process

TECHNOLOGY

• Act as organizational contact on information technology, with a primary focus on Microsoft Teams and SharePoint
• Liaise with IT consultant for more advanced hardware troubleshooting support
• Maintain cybersecurity, with support of IT consultant; ensure all staff are trained annually in detecting cybersecurity breaches
• Maintain equipment inventory – project need for periodic upgrades on all devices, and collaborate with COO for annual technology budgeting
• Serve as a resource for Community Suite (ECF’s CRM)

HUMAN RESOURCES

• Lead new staff onboarding and offboarding
• Explore an HR platform to address needs related to offboarding/onboarding, benefits, time off, and performance management
• Support a thriving staff culture, including participating in the Joy Committee and supporting staff culture events as needed
• Support recruitment and new hire proceedings as needed

ADMINISTRATION

• Collaborate on weekly electronic check deposits process
• Oversee annual 501(c)3 administration, including state of IL annual report, supporting the financial audit and 990 process, tax exemption renewal, and Council on Foundations National Standards as needed
• Oversee info@evanstonforever.org and other organization-wide accounts; forward communications to the appropriate employee
• Attend Board Committee meetings to take minutes and bring back action items for the Fin/Ops team
• Provide general organizational administrative support as needed

Desired Characteristics

• 2-3 years previous experience in operations/administrative role, preferably for nonprofit
• Organized, detail- and process-oriented
• A self-starter able to operate both independently and on a team
• Comfortable navigating and learning a range of technology tools and databases
• Strong judgement and decision-making experience, with a drive to work autonomously
• Strong active listening skills
• Enthusiastic about and committed to the Evanston community
• Understands and/or has an eagerness to learn about the interworking of a community foundation and how philanthropy can drive social change
• Flexible to work some evenings and weekends
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team and fulfill your part to drive towards common goals

Desired Skills

• Proficiency in Basic Microsoft Office applications – Word, Outlook, and Excel
• Basic to advanced knowledge of Microsoft Teams or other cloud-based communication/web-storage platforms
• Strong project management skills; with the ability to pivot priorities as needed while keeping track of all ongoing projects
• Desire for individual growth and leadership, willingness to take the lead to support an effective workplace
• Demonstrated commitment to ongoing anti-racist and/or Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion learning
• Strong written and verbal skills
• Demonstrated ability to analyze, think critically, and explain alternatives clearly
• Preference for bilingual candidates