"Executive Director for Operations"

The Executive Director for Operations provides strategic leadership and administrative oversight for the College’s operational functions, reporting directly to the Vice President for Financial Innovation. This role is responsible for driving continuous improvement and operational excellence through efficient systems, innovative processes, and optimized resource management. Key areas of oversight include operations and maintenance, procurement, contract negotiation, projects, and off-campus properties. This is a full-time twelve-month appointment with a comprehensive benefits package included.

Primary Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Operations: Develop, implement, and manage operational policies and strategies that ensure efficiency, effectiveness, and compliance with relevant regulations; support risk management function relative to organization’s assets and operations.
2. Cross-Functional Leadership: Lead and facilitate collaboration across departments to streamline operations, enhance productivity, and align with institutional goals.
3. Team Management: Optimize outcomes using a performance management approach, including but not limited to setting performance goals and conducting regular evaluations to ensure a high-performing team culture.
4. Procurement and Contracts: Develop and oversee the strategic procurement lifecycle, including vendor selection, request for proposals, negotiations, supply chain management, and contract monitoring to ensure cost-efficiency and quality assurance. Create a campus-wide process for review and a centralized repository for contracts to enhance visibility, create cost savings, and limit liability.
5. Facilities Oversight: Provide leadership to the Operations & Maintenance department, fostering a balance between efficiency, innovation, and cost control.
6. Technology and Automation: Champion the integration of technology and automation to improve operational processes, reduce manual errors, and enhance financial performance.
7. Financial Stewardship: Manage departmental budgets, including forecasting, allocation, and monitoring of financial resources, ensuring accountability and fiscal responsibility.
8. Sustainability Leadership: Promote sustainable practices across operational functions to reduce environmental impact and support the College’s commitment to eco-conscious initiatives.

Supervision and Autonomy: The Executive Director operates with a high degree of autonomy, setting priorities based on institutional goals and independently developing methods to address evolving needs. Guidance is provided on broad policy matters and exceptional situations.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, management, or a related field required; master’s degree preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in strategic leadership, organizational development, financial oversight, and process improvement.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills.
• Proven analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Strong background in team leadership, project management, and operational efficiency.
• Ability to remain composed under pressure and manage multiple priorities effectively.

About Wartburg College: Founded in 1852, Wartburg College is a selective four-year liberal arts college of the Lutheran Church (ELCA), nationally recognized for community engagement. The college offers more than 50 academic majors and pre-professional and certificate programs leading to the bachelor’s degree. The college is located in Waverly, Iowa, a growing community of more than 10,000 residents. As part of the Cedar Valley metro area (near Waterloo and Cedar Falls), Waverly has an abundance of cultural, musical, and recreational opportunities. Major Midwest metropolitan areas within driving distance include Des Moines, Iowa (2.5 hours); Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minn. (3 hours); Madison, Wis. (3.5 hours); Rochester, Minn. (2 hours); Chicago (5 hours); and Omaha, Neb. (4 hours). For more information, visit www.wartburg.edu.