The Alexandria Economic Development Partnership (AEDP) is a 501(c)6 public-private partnership dedicated to promoting Alexandria, Virginia, as a premier location for businesses, entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and institutions of science and learning. AEDP showcases Alexandria’s workforce, strategic location, livability, and transit options to attract new jobs and investment. Working closely with city leadership and guided by an independent board of directors, AEDP drives economic growth and vitality for Alexandria.

Position Summary

The Director of Operations reports directly to the President/CEO and serves as a strategic partner to the CEO and senior leadership team. Based in Alexandria, Virginia, this hybrid role oversees AEDP’s internal operations—including financial management, human resources, technology, and compliance—to ensure operational excellence and alignment with AEDP’s mission. Managing a team of two, the Director of Operations is instrumental in advancing AEDP’s growth objectives and supporting Alexandria’s economic development. This role requires flexibility for occasional early morning, evening, and weekend meetings or events.

Strategic Operations
• Lead and enhance internal operations, implement systems and processes that improve efficiency, mitigate risks, and advance AEDP’s mission.
• Define, implement and oversee administrative processes and policies and protocols for the organization (procurement/contract management, expense reimbursement, training, performance management, etc.).
• Collaborate with the Leadership Team on strategic initiatives to drive growth and maintain financial stability.
• Manage high-impact projects that further AEDP’s mission and organizational readiness.

Human Resources and Organizational Culture
• Oversee HR functions, including recruitment, performance management, employee relations and benefits administration, fostering professional growth and staff retention.
• Cultivate a high-performance culture through training and development programs, reinforcing AEDP’s commitment to employee well-being and engagement.
• Shape and lead AEDP’s talent strategy, building a positive, inclusive workplace aligned with the organization’s values and DEI principles.

Financial Management
• Prepares the annual budget, providing relevant information, data, and analysis. Collaborates with department heads and CEO to determine budgetary needs.
• Oversees tax preparation efforts and coordinate with an independent accounting firm.
• Assist the CEO during monthly accounting reconciliation and annual audit by preparing and providing financial documents to address queries.
• Oversee payroll processes to ensure timely and accurate compensation aligned with AEDP’s policies and financial practices.
• Analyze and optimize AEDP’s financial performance through regular reviews, ensuring fiscal transparency and accountability.
• Oversee procurement activities and manage contracts on behalf of the organization, ensuring on-budget and timely delivery of goods and services.

Technology and Digital Infrastructure
• Direct AEDP’s IT strategy, ensuring secure, scalable technology systems that support the organization’s evolving needs.
• Evaluate and implement digital solutions to improve operational efficiency and enable data-driven decision-making.
• Oversee and optimize organizational databases and systems.
• Manage IT vendor relationships, overseeing contract negotiations and aligning technology resources with AEDP’s goals.

Board and Stakeholder Relations
• Support the CEO in managing board relations, including preparing materials, documenting meetings, and following up on action items.
• Serve as a liaison to key external partners, building and maintaining relationships that align with AEDP’s objectives.

• Bachelor’s degree required; a master’s degree in business administration, nonprofit management, economic development, or a related field is highly preferred.

• Minimum of ten years in a progressively responsible operations role, including senior management experience in economic development, nonprofit, or public-sector environments (preferred).  An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted.
• Proven success in strategic planning, operational leadership, and financial management.

• Strong understanding of operational best practices and the ability to analyze and recommend improvements.
• Skilled at fostering a collaborative and high-performing work environment, promoting teamwork and continuous improvement.
• Knowledge of generally accepted accounting practices and procedures, including those involved in preparing and managing operating and capital budgets, preferably within a government or nonprofit setting.
• Experience in contract development, administration, and monitoring.
• Proficient in human resources administration and management.
• Ability to analyze and research a variety of organizational issues and independently solve them or provide sound recommendations to leadership for resolution.
• Demonstrates empathy, tact, and effective communication skills.
• Possesses strong critical thinking skills with the ability to anticipate needs, identify potential challenges, and propose effective solutions.
• Proactive and self-motivated, with a positive, can-do attitude.