Strategic Program Operations Director

Catholic Charities; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 80,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago is seeking a Director of Program Operations to guide strategic program performance for the Chief Program Officer. You will drive data-informed decisions across the portfolio and lead cross-functional initiatives to improve efficiency and impact.

You will coach leaders, develop templates and playbooks, and coordinate risk management and crisis responses while aligning with the organization's mission to serve communities in Cook and Lake counties.

Qualifications

• Strong project management and strategic planning skills; ability to manage cross-functional initiatives and sensitive communications
• Experience supporting C-suite leaders; strong analytical, communication, and facilitation skills; experience with performance dashboards

Responsibilities

• Build a clear, consistent view of program performance across the portfolio. Lead regular reviews, analyze program, operational, and financial data, and brief the CPO on key trends, risks, and opportunities.
• Lead priority operating initiatives that improve program effectiveness. Partner with Program and Mission Support leaders to strengthen workflows, quality assurance practices, and shared ways of working.
• Support program leaders with coaching, troubleshooting, and practical resources. Develop templates, playbooks, and onboarding supports so leaders and teams can operate more consistently and efficiently.
• Surface issues early and support timely problem-solving. Escalate operational, compliance, and reputational risks, and help coordinate crisis response and follow-up when needed.
• Advance CPO priorities across the program portfolio. Represent the CPO as needed, coordinate follow-through on decisions, and strengthen alignment across program leadership and cross-functional teams.

Skills

Project management

Strategic planning

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

BA/BS in related field

MA/MS in related field

PMP certification

Job description

Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago is seeking a Director of Program Operations to guide strategic program performance for the Chief Program Officer. You will drive data-informed decisions across the portfolio and lead cross-functional initiatives to improve efficiency and impact.

You will coach leaders, develop templates and playbooks, and coordinate risk management and crisis responses while aligning with the organization's mission to serve communities in Cook and Lake counties.