Director of Operations

Director of Operations

Company: American Academy of Dramatic Arts

Job Location:

Category: Manager/Director

Type: Full-Time

Email: jobsny@aada.edu

The Director of Operations is a senior leadership role responsible for effectively overseeing the Academy's operational infrastructure, including Facilities, Security, and Information Technology. This position ensures the safety, functionality, and technological integrity of all Academy properties and systems, while aligning daily operations with the institution's mission of excellence in performing arts education.

Working in close partnership with the President, Chief Financial Officer, Vice President of Academics, Director of Student Services, and other senior staff, the Director of Operations aligns daily operations efficient in support of the Academy's mission and strategic priorities. The role is also responsible for regulatory compliance related to facilities and security as well as ensuring continuity across Academy locations including its principal academic campus and the adjacent student residence.

The Director of Operations provides proactive, forward-thinking leadership, anticipating operational, facilities, and organizational needs before challenges arise. This role requires excellent project planning and execution skills to coordinate complex initiatives, manage resources and timelines, and ensure successful outcomes across multiple departments. The Director of Operations also builds and leads strong, collaborative teams that support safe, efficient, and reliable campus operations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Facilities Management

• Oversee all aspects of property operations, maintenance, and capital improvements.
• Manage preventive maintenance programs for mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire safety, and life-safety systems.
• Supervise facilities staff and external vendors to maintain code compliance with NYC Department of Buildings, FDNY, DEP, DEC, LPC, DOT, and DSNY.
• Plan and coordinate renovations, space reconfigurations, and infrastructure upgrades in consultation with Academy leadership and its architects, engineers, and contractors.
• Lead long-range planning for capital projects aligned with strategic and financial objectives.

Security and Safety

• Direct all security operations across the Academy's academic and residential facilities.
• Supervise full-time and part-time security staff and contract personnel; ensure professional standards of conduct and performance.
• Develop, implement, and update security protocols, emergency preparedness plans, and incident reporting procedures.
• Maintain partnerships with the NYPD, FDNY, and local community organizations to strengthen the Academy's emergency response capacity.
• Ensure compliance with the Clery Act and prepare the Annual Campus Safety and Security Report for submission to the U.S. Department of Education.
• Conduct fire drills and staff training in emergency response and workplace safety.

Information Technology Oversight

• Supervise the Academy's IT function in partnership with the remote IT Manager, ensuring reliable technology support for students, faculty, and staff.
• Oversee on-site IT operations-including classroom technology, network troubleshooting, and equipment maintenance-through direct coordination with the Facilities team.
• Provide hands-on support for critical systems such as networked Canon printers, the campus phone system, and classroom A/V equipment.
• Partner with senior leadership to identify and implement technology solutions that improve operational efficiency and academic delivery.
• Maintain accountability for the performance and maintenance of physical security systems, including access control and surveillance cameras.

Leadership and Administration

• Lead and mentor a cross-functional team of approximately 13 employees in Facilities, Security, and IT.
• Oversee all vendor contracts, procurement, and certificates of insurance.
• Inspire a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Serve as the primary operational liaison to executive leadership, faculty, and student services.
• Participate in weekly cross-departmental meetings to align operational priorities with institutional goals.

QUALIFICATONS

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Public Administration, or a related field required; Master's degree or relevant professional certification preferred (e.g., FMP, CFM, CEM, CISSP).
• 7-10 years of progressive operational or facilities leadership experience, including at least 3-5 years in a supervisory role; experience in higher education or a similar institutional environment preferred.
• Proven proactive and strategic thinkers able to balance long-term planning with day-to-day execution. Ability to anticipate challenges, plan effectively, and implement timely solutions.
• Demonstrated excellence in project planning and execution, including managing budgets, capital projects, vendors, and cross-departmental initiatives.
• Experience overseeing facilities, security, compliance, and technology operations within a complex organization.
• Strong interpersonal skills and comfort collaborating across academic and administrative teams.
• Skilled in fostering positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Calm, decisive, and adaptive under pressure.
• Committed to safety, continuous improvement, equity, and the educational mission of the Academy.
• Working knowledge of NYC building codes, environmental regulations, and life-safety standards.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

This is a full-time position with a compensation range between $80,000 to $100,000 (negotiable based on experience); excellent benefits include health, dental, life insurance, 401K plan, and generous vacation time.

We recognize that no candidate will meet every qualification listed. If this role aligns with your experience and interests, we encourage you to apply.

HOW TO APPLY

Email jobsny@aada.edu with the subject line: Director of Operations, LAST NAME, FIRST NAME. Include a cover letter in the body of the email and attach a resume (PDF or WORD file). Only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
Position open until filled; please, no phone calls.