Director of Operations

Director of Operations

About Friends of the Everglades

Friends of the Everglades is a dedicated nonprofit organization committed to protecting, preserving, and restoring the unique Everglades ecosystem. Through advocacy, education, research and community partnerships, FOE works to secure a sustainable future for natural resources across the 16-county Greater Everglades region. Friends of the Everglades works to inspire positive change by engaging diverse stakeholders in the science-driven conservation of one of America’s most vital and iconic landscapes. For more information, please visit www.everglades.org.

Position Summary

The Director of Operations will serve as a key leader responsible for overseeing and enhancing the internal administrative and operational functions of Friends of the Everglades. Reporting directly to the Executive Director, this role ensures that all organizational systems—from human resources to financial management, IT, and compliance—operate efficiently and effectively. The ideal candidate will be a strategic and innovative thinker with strong operational expertise, capable of coordinating across multiple service providers and internal teams to support FOE’s mission and strategic objectives. This is an on-site role with some flexibility for candidates residing within commuting distance of Stuart.

Position Duties and Responsibilities

Human Resources & Employee Management

• Develop, update, and enforce the employee handbook and benefits management policies.
• Oversee recruitment and hiring processes, ensuring best practices and compliance.
• Regularly update and refine job descriptions to reflect evolving roles and organizational needs.
• Serve as the primary liaison with external service providers in human resources, finance, and IT to ensure seamless operations.

Financial and Grant Oversight

• Collaborate with the Bookkeeper and Executive Director on budget development and financial planning.
• Manage grant tracking and compliance processes in coordination with the Development Director.
• Provide audit support by coordinating with financial service providers and ensuring all records are maintained accurately.
• Oversee the review and implementation of insurance policies including Directors & Officers (D&O), General Liability, Cyber, and Workers Compensation.

Systems, Contracts, and Compliance

• Strategize and implement computer/software systems enhancements, including robust cybersecurity measures.
• Lead the review, negotiation, and execution of contracts for researchers and various contractors.
• Ensure adherence to lobbying regulations and manage compliance processes related to advocacy efforts.
• Coordinate with the Governance Committee and Governance Chair to support board operations and committee activities in line with state and federal laws and organizational bylaws.
• Track and work with leadership to update the organization’s Strategic Plan to ensure goals are met and aligned with FOE’s mission.
• Maintain and enforce compliance with state and federal nonprofit laws, including 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) regulations.

Candidate Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of professional operations experience, ideally within a nonprofit environment.
• Demonstrated expertise in human resources management, financial oversight, and administrative operations.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and coordinate with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities with a strategic and analytical mindset.
• Proficiency in modern computer and software systems, with an understanding of cybersecurity best practices.
• Experience with nonprofit compliance, governance, and regulatory requirements.
• Ability to work on-site with flexibility for candidates within commuting distance of Stuart.

Friends of the Everglades offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan, paid time off, and 13 holidays annually, in addition to the week of July 4th. The organization values work-life balance and fosters a collaborative team environment dedicated to their mission.

POLICY ON PLACEMENT AND RECRUITING

The Batten Group and Friends of the Everglades is an equal opportunity employer committed to the principles of non-discrimination in the workplace. Candidates will not be discriminated against on the basis of age, race, creed, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, marital status, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law.