Operations Strategy Associate Director

Job Title: Operations Strategy Associate Director

Reports to: Executive Director (PRPHT)

Location / Hours: San Juan, Puerto Rico / Full-Time

Type of Contract: Regular Position (Probationary Period)

Purpose

The Operations Strategy Associate Director at the Puerto Rico Public Health Trust (PRPHT) will be responsible for overseeing the strategic planning and execution of day-to-day operational initiatives that align with the Trust's mission to improve public health outcomes across Puerto Rico. Under the Executive Director guidance, this role will be expected to manage a diverse portfolio of projects, optimize operational efficiency, and support the financial stewardship of public health resources, particularly federal funds. This role involves a combination of strategic thinking, innovative management techniques, project management, leadership, and effective budget management to ensure that operational goals are met in an efficient, compliant, and sustainable manner.

Key Responsibilities and Duties

Strategic Planning and Execution:

• Lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of operational strategies that align with the Trust's overall mission and vision.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to identify long-term goals and operational priorities.
• Ensure alignment between operational initiatives and broader public health goals in Puerto Rico.

Project Management:

• Manage a portfolio of strategic initiatives and operational projects from inception to completion, ensuring they are delivered on time, within scope, and on budget.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams, ensuring effective communication, collaboration, and accountability.
• Oversee risk management processes for operational projects, identifying and mitigating risks as they arise.

Budget Management and Financial Oversight:

• Develop and oversee the operational budget for the PRPHT, ensuring effective allocation and use of federal funds and other resources.
• Monitor and evaluate the financial performance of operational projects, providing regular reports and recommendations to senior leadership and division directors.
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations regarding budget management, specifically those related to the use of federal funds.
• Continuously identify potential grants to support PRPHT program sustainability

Policy and Compliance Oversight:

• Ensure that all operational strategies and projects adhere to public health policies, regulations, and best practices, particularly those involving federal funding and reporting.
• Work closely with legal and compliance teams to ensure adherence to all applicable laws, including those related to healthcare, data privacy, and financial reporting.

Staff Leadership and Development:

• Lead, mentor, and managing operational staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment.
• Develop and implement staff training and development programs to enhance operational efficiency and capability.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide feedback to ensure continuous improvement and alignment with organizational objectives.

Stakeholder Management:

• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders (e.g., healthcare providers, government officials, and community organizations) and external partners.
• Communicate strategic objectives and operational updates to various stakeholders, ensuring transparency and buy-in.
• Represent the PRPHT in meetings with federal and local agencies, presenting operational strategies and progress.

Since our organization is going to change to meet the needs of new designations, you can expect, anticipate, and assume that your job description will change to meet these challenges.

Qualifications & Technical Job Requirements

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire, develop, and manage diverse teams.
• Ability to think critically and develop forward-looking strategies that align with public health priorities.
• Expertise in managing complex projects with a focus on timeline, quality, and budget control.
• Strong knowledge of budgeting, financial reporting, and resource allocation, particularly in relation to government funding.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present to senior executives, federal agencies, and external stakeholders.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to address and resolve operational challenges effectively.
• Familiarity with public health regulations, compliance standards, and best practices, particularly related to the use of federal funds.
• Native proficiency in Spanish and English required.
• This role is based in Puerto Rico and requires work from the office several days a week and needs to be able to travel through several geographical areas on the island and outside to fulfill project needs.

Experience & Educational Requirements

• Master's degree in business administration (MBA) or a related field is required.
• PhD in a relevant discipline (e.g., Public Health, Health Administration, or Health Sciences) is highly preferred.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) or equivalent project management certification required.
• Additional certifications in public health administration or operational strategy are a plus.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in operations management, strategy development, or a related field, with a proven track record of managing complex projects and cross-functional teams.
• Experience working with federal funds and in budget management, particularly in the context of public health programs or government-funded initiatives.
• Experience with federal and local compliance standards and reporting requirements.
• Prior experience in public health or healthcare sectors, particularly in a governmental or non-profit setting, is highly desirable.

"The Trust is an equal opportunity employer; we strive to maintain a workplace atmosphere that is free from discrimination. To those ends, the Trust provides equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, national origin, social status, political affiliation, religion, physical or mental disability, veteran status, perceived or real domestic violence victim status, sexual harassment victim status, stalking victim status, and/or any other basis protected by law."