Vice President of Operations - Think Small

Job Description: VP of Operations 

Think Small, Minnesota’s leader in early learning, is dedicated to advancing early childhood care and education. We have worked for 50 years to support the full potential for every child and have committed to championing policies and practices of equity that empower a just, inclusive and equitable care and education system for children in their crucial early years. The quality of a child's early experiences greatly influences his or her success later in life and there is much that can be done to improve the quality of early childhood settings to optimize a child's development. 

Position Summary: 

The Vice President of Operations will play a crucial role in overseeing the day-to-day operations of the company, ensuring efficiency, effectiveness, and compliance across all departments. Reporting directly to the CEO, the VP of Operations will be responsible for providing strategic leadership and guidance in the areas of finance, technology, human resources, and facilities management, and will oversee the employees of the departments. 

Key Responsibilities: 

1. Financial Oversight 

• Develop and implement financial strategies to optimize profitability and ensure financial stability. 

• Monitor budgets, financial reports, and performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and cost-saving opportunities. 

• Collaborate with the finance team to manage cash flow, investments, and financial risk. 

• Present financial analyses to the Board of Directors. 

1. Technology Management: 

• Evaluate, recommend, and implement technology solutions to enhance operational efficiency and productivity in coordination with the Technology Operation. 

• Oversee the maintenance and optimization of existing systems and infrastructure. 

• Stay current with technological advancements and industry best practices to drive innovation within the organization.  

• Ensure the implementation of robust privacy and data security measures, including encryption protocols, access controls, and compliance with relevant regulations. 

1. Human Resources Leadership: 

• Work with our HR Manager to develop and implement HR strategies and policies to attract, retain, and develop top talent. 

• Oversee recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and employee relations initiatives. 

• Ensure compliance with employment laws and regulations and promote a positive work culture conducive to employee engagement and growth. 

1. Facilities Management: 

• Work with our Facilities Team Leader to manage facilities, including office space equipment and utilities to ensure a safe, clean, and productive work environment. 

• Coordinate with vendors and contractors for facility maintenance, repairs, and renovations. 

• Implement sustainability initiatives to minimize environmental impact and reduce operating costs. 

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Management, or related field; MBA or advanced degree preferred. 

• Proven experience in a senior management role with oversight of finance, technology, human resources, and facilities. 

• Strong financial acumen and analytical skills, with the ability to interpret financial data and make strategic decisions. 

• Demonstrated leadership ability with excellent communication, interpersonal, and team-building skills. 

• Knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and best practices in finance, HR, and facilities management. 

• Ability to think strategically, solve complex problems, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. 

• Familiarity with non-profit budgeting, financial audits, and budgetary forecasting.

• Proficiency in MS Office Suite and other business software. 

Benefits: 

• Hybrid work schedule with a mix of on-site and remote days. 

• Comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, short- and long-term disability, life, vision, pet, critical illness, and long-term care insurance. 

• Medical and dependent care flex spending accounts, Health Savings Account (HSA), legal and ID protection plans. 

• Pre-tax and ROTH 401k with employer match. 

• Generous paid time off: 23 days of sick/vacation time earned the first year, eight scheduled holidays, and five floating holidays. 

• Six weeks paid parental leave. 

Join us in our mission to make a difference in the community through effective financial stewardship. If you have a passion for non-profit finance and a desire to drive organizational success, we encourage you to apply.