Executive Operations Lead

About Understood

Understood is a nonprofit focused on shaping the world for difference. We raise awareness of the challenges and strengths of people who learn and think differently. Our resources help people navigate challenges, gain confidence, and find support and community so they can thrive. 

Having a shared commitment to our values is a key factor in any hire we make. We have five core values: 

1. Continuously learn.
2. Act with intention.
3. Champion difference.
4. Inspire change.
5. Grow together. 

Come be part of an organization with an entrepreneurial spirit that’s helping to shape the world for difference. Together, we can build a world where everyone can reach their full potential. 

To learn more about Understood, please visit: www.understood.org.

Who you are 

To advance Understood’s mission and further our impact, we are hiring an Associate Director level, Executive Operations Lead, reporting into the Chief People & Culture Officer. 

The Executive Operations Lead is responsible for the coordination of all internal and external activities for three of the organization’s executive leaders – the two (2) Co-Presidents and Chief People and Culture Officer. Additionally, you will drive the seamless execution of events, meetings, and special projects for the executive leadership team (ELT). You will also provide oversight for the org-wide contract process, as well as all board and sub-committee meeting coordination, including but not limited to, preparing correspondence, follow-up, and other materials. As a key member of the People & Culture Team, you will also provide operational support within the office as necessary.

Ideal candidates have a passion for proactively leading and driving executive office operational efficiencies. This role will be the “go-to” person for the executive leaders, enabling them to focus on the work that advances our mission. Therefore this role requires problem-solving, prioritization, strong communication skills and excellent organizational skills. 

This is a hybrid role that requires working a minimum of four (4) days per week in our NYC office.

What you’ll do

The Executive Operations Lead will have the challenging and exciting responsibility of working with the ELT to both maintain a big-picture view of the entire organization and its long-term impact, while also having a keen attention to detail and a bias towards execution.

This is a role for someone who thrives at the intersection of strategic thinking and operational execution. This role is critical in driving operational efficiency, overseeing key projects, and acting as a bridge between executive leadership and all teams across the organization, and is critical to ensure Understood continues to measurably improve the lives of hundreds of millions of people.

Strategic Leadership Operations

• Manage all administrative tasks on behalf of the three executive leaders, including but not limited to calendar management, coordinating domestic and international travel, expense reporting, etc., to increase the effectiveness and productivity of leadership
• Lead the preparation and coordination of meetings on behalf of the three executives, which may include scheduling, room set up, meal coordination, meeting materials, etc.
• Advise on time-sensitive issues, support prioritization and ensure proper follow up for these leaders
• Act as a liaison between executive leaders and key stakeholders (internal/external), ensuring alignment and efficiency
• Design and implement systems that ensure the effective and efficient use of the leader’s time and resources

Board Coordination and Liaison 

• Supporting the three executives with board meeting and sub-committee meeting planning, preparation, communications, and interactions with Board members and committee chairman 

Contract Administration

• Project manage all aspects of our contracting process, acting as the liaison between counsel and internal employees
• Prepare Independent Contractor Agreements from templates
• Facilitate review of all vendor contracts

Must-haves 

• Minimum 7+ years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated ability to handle highly sensitive and strategic issues and manage relationships effectively, including the capability of building trust with top executives and senior leadership. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication, interpersonal, organization, and problem-solving skills. 
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to perform multiple tasks in a fast-paced, rapidly changing, high profile environment. 
• Ability to communicate sensitive information verbally and in writing to individuals at all levels. 
• Proficiency in Google Drive tools (Docs, Sheets, Slides) and MS Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Committed to embodying and being a steward of our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
• Able to work out of Understood.org headquarters in the West Village area of New York City 4 days per week.

The base salary range for this role is minimum $125,000 - $150,000 maximum, depending on years of experience and qualifications. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that supports wellness for our team members and their families. You can learn more about our benefits and offerings.

Understood.org does not sponsor applicants for work visas or legal permanent residence, including providing assistance with STEM OPT extensions.

Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion

Understood encourages individuals of all learning styles and ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds, including those whose life experiences may include the challenge of access due to a disability, to apply for this position. We are committed to maximizing the diversity of our organization, as we want to engage all those who can contribute to supporting this work.

Understood is an equal opportunity employer and considers all applications without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, alienage or citizenship status, marital or familial status, domestic partnership status, caregiver status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, change of sex or transgender status, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, physical or mental disability (where the applicant or employee is qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation), any protected military or veteran status, or status as a victim of domestic or dating violence, sexual assault or offense, stalking, or any other characteristics protected by federal, state, or local law or that of persons with whom that individual associates, or any other legally protected characteristics.

For additional information on learning and thinking differences, including ADD/ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, dyspraxia, executive function challenges, nonverbal learning disabilities, processing issues, and more, please visit www.understood.org.

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