Director of Operations

About the role

The Director of Operations leads the activation of daily operations at Chicago Shakespeare Theater's entire campus with its three theaters, lobbies, offices and backstage spaces, providing superior customer service to employees, performers and patrons. This role manages the Facilities, Custodial and Information Technology teams, overseeing day-to-day business operations, safety and compliance practices, facilities coordination, vendor relationships, and cross-departmental processes that support excellent artistic work and superior visitor experiences.

Financial and Operational Oversight

• Develop and manage annual department budget
• Manage operational budgets and capital improvement needs, adjusting resources to improve cost efficiency

Process Optimization

• Design and improve workflows, such as supply procurement, opening and closing procedures, health and safety protocols, and work schedules for theater operations and events

Team Leadership

• Ensure cohesive working relationships across the organization
• Ensure complete venue readiness for every performance

Strategic Planning

• Align daily operations across the departments with the organization's long-term objectives

Essential Duties

• Ensure compliance with Chicago Shakespeare Theater safety policies, accessibility requirements, and City, State and Federal licensing requirements, fire regulations and health and safety obligations
• Develop and lead emergency and disaster preparedness and recovery plans to ensure the most current safety measures and that staff are fully prepared for any emergency or disaster
• Lead a health and safety committee for annual trainings and general maintenance and upkeep of health and safety equipment
• Cultivate and sustain strong relationships with Navy Pier counterparts, and be familiar with CST's lease agreement rights and responsibilities
• Ensure the building is in excellent condition, always clean, and space is designed for optimal patron experience. Prepare spaces for events and activities as requested. Work with Front of House Manager to create the highest quality experience for audiences
• Oversee and maintain appropriate inventory, supplies and equipment via an inventory control system
• Create and maintain inventory and aging reports of building furniture, fixtures, technology, and equipment
• Negotiate with product and maintenance vendors/contractors
• Track spending on services such as HVAC, electric, waste management, major equipment maintenance and inspections, and others
• Manage vendor relationships, contracts, insurance documentation, service agreements, purchasing, and operational supplies
• Support grant reporting, capital project documentation, and development requests by providing operational details, budgets, timelines, and expense information
• Supervise IT Manager, technology managed services, and all IT and data storage expenditures
• Plan and implement capital renewal and replacement projects for the facility
• Maintain proper records of events and maintenance
• Work closely with relevant departments across the organization to ensure appropriate set-up for CST events, in particular the Front of House Manager and departments involved in special events. Create systems, documents that ensure consistent information for everyone involved in events and activities
• Review and plan for performance, programmatic and event-based needs
• Oversee and monitor hiring, training and scheduling of work hours for full and part-time Facilities and Custodial staff
• Other duties and responsibilities may be added at the discretion of the Executive Director and the Director of Human Resources
• Champion the organization's commitment to a respectful, inclusive and equitable workplace
• Model CST's core values of service, ingenuity, and collaboration as well as its customer service ethos

Qualifications

• Minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in operations, arts administration, nonprofit management, venue management, production administration, or a related field
• Strong project management, organizational, budgeting, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Experience managing facilities, vendors, contracts, budgets, staff, or cross-functional operational systems
• Familiarity with theater, live events, performing arts, or nonprofit environments strongly preferred
• Ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on execution in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
• General knowledge of practices and techniques involved in implementing a program of building maintenance and repair including the scheduling of work and assigning priorities
• General knowledge of industry standards and practices applicable to building operations, such as building and utility systems, plumbing, fire protection and detection, electrical, HVAC, safety, and energy
• Demonstrate a commitment to the highest level of patron service
• The ability to work and communicate effectively with a diverse group of volunteers, patrons and staff
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Excellent customer service skills
• Valid drivers license

Physical Demands

• Capable of performing physical tasks including but not limited to climbing, stooping, pushing, bending, kneeling, reaching, lifting, and moving up to 40 lbs.