The Director of Operations is a senior leadership role responsible for effectively overseeing the Academy’s operational infrastructure,
including Facilities, Security, and Information Technology. This position ensures the safety, functionality, and technological integrity of
all Academy properties and systems, while aligning daily operations with the institution’s mission of excellence in performing arts
education.
Working in close partnership with the President, Chief Financial Officer, Vice President of Academics, Director of Student
Services, and other senior staff, the Director of Operations aligns daily operations efficient in support of the Academy’s mission and
strategic priorities. The role is also responsible for regulatory compliance related to facilities and security as well as ensuring
continuity across Academy locations including its principal academic campus and the adjacent student residence.
The Director of
Operations provides proactive, forward-thinking leadership, anticipating operational, facilities, and organizational needs before challenges
arise. This role requires excellent project planning and execution skills to coordinate complex initiatives, manage resources and timelines,
and ensure successful outcomes across multiple departments. The Director of Operations also builds and leads strong, collaborative teams
that support safe, efficient, and reliable campus operations.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Facilities Management
- Oversee all aspects of property operations, maintenance, and capital improvements.
- Manage preventive maintenance
programs for mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire safety, and life-safety systems. - Supervise facilities staff and external
vendors to maintain code compliance with NYC Department of Buildings, FDNY, DEP, DEC, LPC, DOT, and DSNY. - Plan and coordinate
renovations, space reconfigurations, and infrastructure upgrades in consultation with Academy leadership and its architects, engineers, and
contractors. - Lead long-range planning for capital projects aligned with strategic and financial objectives.
Security and Safety
- Direct all security operations across the Academy’s academic and residential facilities.
- Supervise full-time and part-time security staff and contract personnel; ensure professional standards of conduct and performance.
- Develop, implement, and update security protocols, emergency preparedness plans, and incident reporting procedures.
- Maintain
partnerships with the NYPD, FDNY, and local community organizations to strengthen the Academy’s emergency response capacity. - Ensure
compliance with the Clery Act and prepare the Annual Campus Safety and Security Report for submission to the U.S. Department
of
Education. - Conduct fire drills and staff training in emergency response and workplace safety.
Information
Technology Oversight
- Supervise the Academy’s IT function in partnership with the remote IT Manager, ensuring reliable
technology
support for students, faculty, and staff. - Oversee on-site IT operations-including classroom technology, network
troubleshooting, and equipment maintenance-through direct coordination with the Facilities team. - Provide hands-on support for
critical systems such as networked Canon printers, the campus phone system, and classroom A/V equipment. - Partner with senior
leadership to identify and implement technology solutions that improve operational efficiency and academic delivery. - Maintain
accountability for the performance and maintenance of physical security systems, including access control and surveillance cameras.
Leadership and
Administration
- Lead and mentor a cross-functional team of approximately 13 employees in
Facilities, Security, and IT. - Oversee all vendor contracts, procurement, and certificates of insurance.
- Inspire a culture
of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. - Serve as the primary operational liaison to executive leadership,
faculty, and student services. - Participate in weekly cross-departmental meetings to align operational priorities with institutional
goals.
QUALIFICATONS
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, Public
Administration, or a related field required; Master’s degree or relevant professional certification preferred (e.g., FMP, CFM, CEM, CISSP). - 7-10 years of progressive operational or facilities leadership experience, including at least 3-5 years in a supervisory role;
experience in higher education or a similar institutional environment preferred. - Proven proactive and strategic thinkers able to
balance long-term planning with day-to-day execution. Ability to anticipate challenges, plan effectively, and implement
timely - solutions.
- Demonstrated excellence in project planning and execution, including managing budgets, capital projects,
vendors, and
cross-departmental initiatives. - Experience overseeing facilities, security, compliance, and technology operations
within a complex
organization. - Strong interpersonal skills and comfort collaborating across academic and administrative
teams. - Skilled in fostering positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
- Calm, decisive, and adaptive
under pressure. - Committed to safety, continuous improvement, equity, and the educational mission of the Academy.
- Working
knowledge of NYC building codes, environmental regulations, and life-safety standards.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
This is a full-time position with a compensation range between $80,000 to $100,000 (negotiable based on experience); excellent
benefits
include health, dental, life insurance, 401K plan, and generous vacation time.
We recognize that no candidate will meet
every
qualification listed. If this role aligns with your experience and interests, we encourage you to apply.
HOW TO APPLY
Email jobsny@aada.edu with the subject line: Director of Operations, LAST NAME, FIRST NAME.
Include
a cover letter in the body of the email and attach a resume (PDF or WORD file). Only those candidates selected for an interview will
be
contacted.
Position open until filled; please, no phone calls.
The Academy is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability, or status as a veteran, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.