Director of Operations

We are searching for a dynamic and committed Director of Operations to drive our mission forward and navigate the exciting challenges of a startup environment.

About Us:

The KC People’s Fund (KCPF) is a social justice foundation that supports grassroots organizers working in communities impacted by systemic racism. We envision a Kansas City where Black, Brown, Indigenous, and other people of color have access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive in a world of abundance and love. Our funding prioritizes community organizing, movement building, and participatory gifting to shift power and democratize philanthropy.

We believe that those closest to the issues are best positioned to identify solutions and advocate for their communities. Our work is rooted in relationships and trust, and we are committed to ensuring that community-led efforts receive the support they need to drive systemic change.

What You’ll Be Doing:

The Director of Operations is a key leadership role responsible for building and maintaining the operational systems that enable KC People’s Fund to achieve its mission. This role requires a dynamic, self-motivated individual with strong strategic thinking and hands-on execution skills. The Director will oversee financial systems, compliance, gifts administration, vendor management, and internal operations. They will work closely with the Executive Director to ensure that KCPF operates efficiently, equitably, and sustainably.

This is an exciting opportunity for a leader who is passionate about social justice, has experience in nonprofit operations, and thrives in a startup environment where adaptability and initiative are essential.

Specifically, you’ll be responsible for:

Operational Leadership & Systems Management (30%)

• Design and improve internal systems, policies, and procedures to support efficient operations.
• Ensure that KCPF’s operations align with trust-based philanthropy principles, centering equity and accessibility.
• Oversee organizational risk management, including maintaining liability insurance policies and ensuring compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations.
• Manage and enhance technology tools and platforms to streamline workflows.

Financial & Gift Management (30%)

• Partner with the Executive Director and external finance professionals to ensure sound financial management, including budgeting, cash flow management, and financial reporting.
• Track expenses, maintain receipts, and ensure proper documentation for compliance and auditing purposes.
• Oversee gifts administration, ensuring timely and efficient processing of community gifts and financial disbursements.
• Ensure compliance with nonprofit financial regulations and respenditure grant reporting to the Sunderland Foundation..

Vendor & Contract Management (20%)

• Negotiate and manage contracts with service providers, vendors, and consultants to support KCPF’s operations.
• Oversee relationships with KCPF’s finance, human resources, and IT service providers.
• Implement and manage procurement policies to ensure ethical and efficient use of funds.

Board & Stakeholder Coordination (10%)

• Work with the Executive Director to schedule and coordinate board and committee meetings, prepare meeting packets, and ensure timely follow-ups.
• Serve as a key liaison for administrative support, keeping board members informed and engaged in operational updates.

Strategic Planning & Continuous Improvement (10%)

• Collaborate on strategic planning efforts, bringing operational insights to guide decision-making.
• Identify and implement process improvements that enhance efficiency, equity, and sustainability.
• Support the Executive Director in organizational growth and capacity-building initiatives.

Who You Are:

While no one person will embody all of the qualities described below, the ideal candidate will possess many of the following professional and personal abilities, attributes, and experiences:

• Personal and professional alignment with KCPF’s values, including a commitment to social justice, racial equity, and community-centered philanthropy.
• Proven experience in nonprofit operations, administration, or a related field.
• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, grants administration, and compliance oversight.
• Ability to work independently with sound judgment, demonstrating initiative and problem-solving skills.
• Strategic thinker who is also comfortable with hands-on operational work.
• High adaptability and flexibility to navigate a growing and evolving organization.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with experience working with leadership teams and boards.
• Proficiency with financial and operations tools, such as QuickBooks, Box, Microsoft Office, and Google Workspace.
• Experience working in trust-based philanthropy, community organizing, or social justice organizations.
• Familiarity with participatory grantmaking models.
• Based in Kansas City with strong connections to historically under-resourced communities, including Black and Brown communities.
• Fluency in Spanish is a plus, as it helps us break down language barriers and ensure equitable access to our services and resources for all communities.