Operations Strategy Lead: Data-Driven Change & Alignment

Action for Boston Community Development; Boston (MA); Hybrid; USD 73,000 - 89,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage

Retirement plans

Training & development

Job summary

Action for Boston Community Development is seeking a Senior Business Operations Specialist to drive day-to-day operational management across Central Administration. You will partner with ITS, Procurement, Property/Real Estate, and Office Services to align operations with strategic priorities.

Lead cross-functional projects, develop detailed plans with milestones, and deliver executive-level dashboards. Strong data analytics, communication, and project management are essential for success.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree preferred; relevant nonprofit operations experience is a plus.
• 3–5 years in project management or nonprofit operations; strong data skills required.
• Proficient with data visualization tools and Microsoft Office suite.

Responsibilities

• Translate strategic initiatives into actionable plans with timelines and metrics.
• Lead cross-functional projects across Administration departments.
• Prepare executive dashboards and reports for decision-making.
• Monitor budgets, forecasts, and financial transactions; analyze variances.
• Develop KPIs and maintain performance dashboards for accountability.

Skills

Project management

Cross-functional collaboration

Data-driven decision making

Process improvement

Strategic planning

Strong communication

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree preferred

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Power BI

Tableau

Excel

MS Office

Job description

Senior Business Operations Specialist

Department: Central Administration

Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time

Location: ABCD Central Office

Compensation: $81,153 / year

Description

The Senior Business Operations Specialist drives day-to-day operational management across several key departments, advancing strategic priorities and department goals in close partnership with the Vice President.This role collaborates with leaders across ABCD’s ITS, Property and Real Estate Service, Purchasing, and Office Services department to support operational alignment, and oversees significant short and long term projects, with a focus on data driven and actionable goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Translate strategic initiatives into actionable plans with clear timelines, deliverables, and success metrics.
• Lead change management efforts related to process, technology, and organizational initiatives.
• Prepare executive-level reports, dashboards, and presentations that inform decision-making, priority identification and overall strategic direction.
• Partner with Administration department leadership to anticipate operational challenges and opportunities, and recommend practical, data-informed solutions to the Vice President.
• Lead and execute cross-functional projects and initiatives across Administration departments.
• Develop and maintain detailed project plans, including milestones, timelines, and resource coordination.
• Monitor progress, manage risks, and ensure timely completion of deliverables.
• Drive cross-departmental alignment and accountability among stakeholders, exercising influence without formal authority.Analyze operational and financial data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities
• Develop and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs) and performance dashboards
• Collaborate with leadership on the implementation of continuous quality improvement (CQI) efforts across Administration functions.
• Establish and maintain consistent reporting cadences to track progress and outcomes
• Support the development and monitoring of departmental budgets and forecasts
• Track expenditures and assist with variance analysis and financial reporting
• Ensure timely and accurate processing of departmental financial and administrative transactions
• Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency and effectiveness across Administration departments.
• Ensure standard operating procedures (SOPs) are maintained and updated in a timely manner.
• Support the implementation of process improvements, automation, and system enhancements.
• Support vendor coordination and contract-related processes, as needed.
• Identify operational risks and contribute to mitigation strategies.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and service excellence.
• Perform other related duties from time to time.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Three to five years of experience in project management, nonprofit operations or other relevant field, and a high school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Strong familiarity with databases; experience with data visualization tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) preferred.
• Excellent communication skills, with an emphasis on project and operational documentation.
• Flexibility, initiative, and ability to work in a team required.
• Ability to collaborate and clearly communicate priorities and progress.
• Demonstrated proficiency in MS Office (advanced Excel) and ability to learn new analytics/office tools quickly.
• Ability to deal sensitively and effectively with individuals of diverse economic and cultural backgrounds.
• Proven project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate data into actionable insights
• Experience working with or supporting ITS, Procurement, Property and Real Estate Services, or similar operational functions preferred

Expected Salary: $81.153.80 annually ($44.59/hour) USD. Salary scales are set according to an explicit compensation policy and relevant market data. Due to funding restrictions and our strong focus on internal parity, this salary is thoughtfully aligned with the duties expected for this role, and offers are firm.

Why Work Here

• Make a Difference: Every day, your work directly impacts the lives of thousands in the Greater Boston community, empowering them and making positive, lasting change.
• Inclusive Environment: ABCD values the diversity of its workforce, with an inclusive culture that respects individuality and promotes collaboration.
• Continuous Learning: We offer numerous training and development opportunities, ensuring our staff remain at the forefront of community action methodologies and strategies.
• Comprehensive Benefits: At ABCD, we take care of our own, providing a competitive benefits package, including health coverage and retirement plans.
• A Legacy of Impact: Join an organization that boasts a legacy spanning over half a century, consistently championing the rights and needs of our community's most vulnerable.
• Teamwork & Camaraderie: Be a part of a passionate team, united in their mission to combat poverty, and ensure every individual can reach their fullest potential.