Director, Business Operations

AARP Foundation works for and with vulnerable people over 50 to end senior poverty and reduce financial hardship by building economic opportunity. As a charitable affiliate of AARP, we serve AARP members and nonmembers alike. Through vigorous legal advocacy and evidence-based solutions, and by strengthening supportive community connections, we foster resilience, advance equity and restore hope.

The Director, Business Operations directs business operations in alignment with the strategy and planning of the business unit/department’s goals and objectives. Directs the implementation of projects and process improvement opportunities and creates plans for implementation. Develops and manages resource allocation for various projects. Liaises with internal departments including finance, human resources, information technology, facilities, and others to accomplish operational needs. Collaborates with senior management to identify opportunities and to implement strategic and tactical plans to position the organization for success.

• Collaborates with cross-functional teams on strategic and tactical business unit objectives. Identifies opportunities for efficiencies in organizational processes or programs and resolves challenges to optimize results. Identifies trends, resolves systemic issues across functions, and ensures strong communication within a matrixed environment.
• Provides data analysis and reporting to senior management. Represents the business unit on internal working groups. Develops, advises, supports, coordinates, and collaborates on special/ high-level strategic projects across the department/organization. Leads and collaborates with cross-functional teams on strategic and tactical business objectives and identifies opportunities for efficiencies in organizational process or programs and resolves challenges to optimize results. Organizes, problem solves, raises issues, and integrates initiatives, solutions, and actions for management.
• Oversees the successful implementation of a variety of projects and addresses operational challenges in support of the overall smooth business operations of the business unit/department.
• Supports business unit/department by providing administrative-level oversight on a variety of projects, programs, and initiatives that are typically division-wide or enterprise-wide as needed by the business unit/department.
• Partners with VPs and Executive Leadership to identify, define, and plan operational opportunities. Liaises with suppliers to ensure annual compliance and maintain good business standing. Assists in the development of backup and recovery plans for critical business systems and functions. Directs the sourcing and management of specific vendors and their activities as they relate to program design, implementation, and enhancements.
• Develops long-term goals and strategic and tactical plans to ensure continued success. Studies, analyzes, and monitors the organization’s position within the industry. Coordinates and integrates division plans with the organization’s business goals and objectives and with other internally-facing business units/departments. Communicates performance results with senior management. Advises and recommends strategies based on reviews.

• Bachelor’s degree.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in operations, procurement, and project management to include 5+ years in a leadership role managing cross-functional teams.
• Deep understanding of project lifecycles, PMO frameworks, Agile/Waterfall methodologies, and portfolio management.
• Expertise in procurement processes, vendor lifecycle management, and regulatory compliance.
• Knowledge of continuous improvement methods such as Lean, Six Sigma, and operational benchmarking.
• Strong people management skills including mentoring, performance management, and managing in a matrixed environment.
• Skill in leading organizational change, managing resistance, and ensuring smooth transitions during new system/tools rollouts.
• Proven ability to streamline systems and processes to improve efficiency and effectiveness.

AARP will not sponsor an employment visa for this position at this time.

Additional Requirements 

• Regular and reliable job attendance.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Exhibit respect and understanding of others to maintain professional relationships.
• Independent judgement in evaluation options to make sound decisions.
• In office/open office environment with the ability to work effectively surrounded by moderate noise.

Hybrid Work Environment

AARP observes Mondays and Fridays as remote workdays, except for essential functions. Remote work can only be done within the United States and its territories.

Compensation and Benefits

AARP offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including a 401(k); 100% company-funded pension plan; health, dental, and vision plans; life insurance; paid time off to include company and individual holidays, vacation, sick, caregiving, and parental leave; performance-based and peer-based recognition and tuition reimbursement.

Equal Employment Opportunity

AARP is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring a diverse workforce and sustaining an inclusive culture. AARP does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, sex, color, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, mental or physical disability, genetic information, veteran status, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law.