Director, Operations

The Dallas Arboretum is a garden for all that enriches lives through beauty, learning, and connection. We are committed to community, learning, innovation, and sustainability.

Job Type: Full-Time Regular, Exempt

JOB SUMMARY:

The Director of Operations oversees essential operational functions, including janitorial services, event setups, and basic maintenance, for daily operations and major festivals and exhibitions. This role ensures that operational tasks are executed efficiently and align with the garden's overall standards for cleanliness, functionality, and support for internal departments. The Director of Operations collaborates with internal teams, contractors, and vendors to execute projects that support operational needs, enhance the guest experience, and align with the garden's mission. The Director of Operations reports to the Vice President of Facilities and Operations. Bilingual in English and Spanish is highly preferred.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and implement comprehensive strategies to ensure the cleaning and upkeep of all buildings, kitchens, and operational spaces to ensure a clean and safe environment
• Provide strategic oversight and leadership for the team responsible for the setup and breakdown of events, programs, and meetings, ensuring all operational requirements are met
• Oversee and provide leadership to the team responsible for performing basic maintenance tasks, such as minor repairs and troubleshooting of non-technical equipment
• Plan, coordinate, and oversee the operational aspects of major festivals and exhibitions, including set up, breakdown, cleaning, and maintenance
• Work with other departments to understand and meet their operational needs, ensuring seamless support for events and activities
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal safety and environmental regulations
• Identify and execute innovative solutions to improve operational efficiency and guest experience
• Lead the development and implementation of environmentally responsible practices to enhance sustainability and minimize the garden's overall environmental impact
• Prepare project budgets, timelines, and resource plans in alignment with organizational goals
• Develop and manage the operations department budget
• Monitor and control costs while maintaining high standards of quality and efficiency
• Source, negotiate, and manage contracts with vendors and service providers
• Lead, mentor, and supervise the operations team, fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence
• Complete other tasks, as assigned

SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree desired
• Bilingual in English and Spanish, highly preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years experience in operations management, with at least 2 years in a leadership role
• Proven experience managing budgets, teams, and complex projects
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and critical thinking skills
• Familiarity with sustainability practices and environmental compliance
• Effective written and oral communication, organizational, time management, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and with external stakeholders
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 and specific computer software as needed
• Physical ability to oversee and direct all operations functions throughout property and relevant offsite locations; repeated walking, standing
• Availability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as needed
• Driver's license to drive garden vehicles and personal vehicles for business purposes

KEY COMPETENCIES:

• Proven ability to develop and execute comprehensive plans that enhance operational efficiency and drive long-term success
• Displays agility in responding proactively to changing needs and challenges, while maintaining operational continuity
• Strong skills in managing and inspiring a diverse team, including staff, contractors, and vendors, while fostering a culture of safety, efficiency, and collaboration
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with internal departments to understand and address their needs
• Committed to quality of service and sensitivity to diversity and inclusion; ability to work in a dynamic, culturally diverse community

To help you stay energized, engaged and inspired, we offer a wide range of benefits including comprehensive healthcare, a 401k and Paid Time Off (PTO) so you can relax, recharge and be there for the people you care about.

The mission of The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is to build and maintain a public venue that promotes the art, enjoyment and knowledge of horticulture, while providing opportunities for education and research. We are committed to excellence, inclusion, good management and fiscal responsibility.

The Dallas Arboretum is committed to being a workplace that is not only free of discrimination, but one that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. We strongly believe that workforce diversity creates an environment in which our employees can thrive and best serve our community. We understand and embrace the variety through which people gain experiences whether through professional, personal, educational, or volunteer opportunities.

The Dallas Arboretum is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, ancestry, national origin, place of birth, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, military or veteran status, genetic characteristics or disability unrelated to job performance.