Director of Operations

Director of Operations, Full-TimeAbout UsAt Southern Vermont Arts Center we draw on Vermont’s spectacular landscape and vibrant artistic heritage to inspire lifelong relationships with the arts for all. We believe art has the power to inspire, challenge, and connect people. We're a community-centered art museum dedicated to creating meaningful experiences for every visitor who walks through our doors — we're looking for someone who shares that passion. SVAC has grown quickly in recent years, including the opening of a new building and increased admissions and membership, and we're looking for an experienced operations leader to help us run smoothly as we continue to grow.The RoleAs Director of Operations, you'll serve as the internal engine that keeps SVAC running day to day. You'll lead our facilities and gallery associate teams, own our human resources function (which could be outsourced), serve as the organization's go-to person for IT and vendor relationships, and act as a key liaison to our restaurant partner and to the Buildings & Grounds Committee of the Board. You'll also step into a pivotal role managing our next construction project, working directly with our general contractor. This is a high-trust role for a strong manager of both projects and people — someone who genuinely enjoys making complex operations successful.What You'll DoOperations & staff leadershipServe as a key member of the senior leadership team, partnering closely with the Executive Director on organizational operations and planningDirectly supervise the Facilities team (2 full-time Facilities Leads, 1–2 part-time staff, and contract housekeeping), overseeing maintenance, safety, and upkeep of SVAC's buildings and 100 acres.Directly supervise the Gallery & Sales Manager, who in turn oversees the team of part-time Gallery Associates and manages visitor services, admissions, the museum shop, and an annual craft fair.Recruit, train, schedule, and mentor direct reports, and foster a collaborative, solutions-oriented team cultureManage budgets related to facilities, operations, and staffing within these areasHuman resourcesOwn SVAC's human resources function, including onboarding, benefits administration, personnel records, and policy compliance. This piece could be outsourced to a contract HR firm in the future.Process payroll through GustoServe as a point of contact for staff on HR matters, and help ensure a positive, well-supported employee experience across the organizationMaintain and update employee handbooks, policies, and procedures as neededIT & vendor managementServe as the staff lead on IT matters, managing SVAC's contracted IT service provider and troubleshooting day-to-day technology needsCoordinate technology needs across departments, including Point of Sale and CRM systemsFacilities, construction & board committee liaisonServe as staff liaison to the Buildings & Grounds Committee of the Board, preparing updates, gathering quotes for maintenance projects, and working with the committee to plan for and prioritize building needs. Act as staff liaison to SVAC's restaurant partner, ensuring smooth day-to-day coordination between curATE and the Arts Center and to jointly manage event rentals across the campus.Serve as SVAC's staff lead on upcoming construction projects, liaising directly with the general contractor and owner's representative to keep projects on schedule, on budget, and aligned with institutional needsWork with collections staff to maintain gallery and facility conditions for artwork safety and visitor wellbeingVisitor services supportManage the Gallery & Sales Manager with a focus on visitor experience standards, admissions operations, museum shop performance, and on-site revenue generation.What We're Looking For5+ years of experience in operations management, ideally within a nonprofit, museum, or cultural institutionPrevious supervisory experience leading multiple teams or departments Exceptional experience in project managementExceptional organizational, budgeting, and problem-solving skillsExcellent communication skills, and comfort serving as liaison across a wide range of stakeholders — board members, contractors, vendors, staff Calm and composed under pressure, with a solutions-focused mindsetStrong work ethic and personal commitment to helping the organization succeedBachelor's degreeExperience with human resources (benefits, onboarding, policy administration) desired but not requiredExperience with leading construction or capital project coordination is a strong plus but not requiredWhat We OfferA senior leadership role at the heart of a vibrant, growing cultural institutionA high degree of trust, autonomy, and influence over how SVAC operates day to dayStaff access to exhibitions, events, and professional development opportunitiesA beautiful, inspiring place to work every dayA collaborative, mission-driven team environmentComprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance Salary range: $80,000 – $90,000, commensurate with experienceSouthern Vermont Arts Center is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.To Apply: Send your resume, and a cover letter letting us know why you would be a great fit for this position.