Work at JAWS: Operations Director

The Journalism & Women Symposium (JAWS) seeks a dynamic operations director to manage our day-to-day needs.

JAWS is a 40-year-old national nonprofit organization that advances the professional growth and empowerment of women* in journalism and advocates for more inclusive coverage of the diverse experiences and cultures that form our society. We have approximately 300 members led by a dedicated volunteer board of directors who serve staggered terms. An annual fall conference is a high point for our members, who also come together online through an active community platform, webinars, committee work and self-organized regional group events.

We’re looking for an experienced operations director to handle administrative tasks, technical support, bookkeeping support and similar duties. This person also must be skilled in volunteer management.

The operations director reports to the president and board of directors.  

* “Women” here includes anyone who self-identifies as a woman, nonbinary or agender person.  

This is an independent contractor position. It is a remote role, and some travel is required to participate in JAWS or partner events.

Specific duties:

  • Financial management: Work with the board’s treasurer, finance committee, and accountant to support financial operations, including budgets, taxes and reporting and maintaining proper records.

  • Culture and communication: Maintain an inclusive, supportive culture that attracts, retains, promotes and engages JAWS members. Keep members informed and actively engaged via regular communication and timely, clear responses to member questions and requests. 

  • CAMP: Oversee the planning and execution of JAWS’ popular annual Conference and Mentor Program, known as CAMP.

The ideal candidate will be:

  • A well-organized project manager with the ability to evaluate, prioritize, and make progress on multiple short- and long-term projects at the same time

  • An excellent communicator, both in speech and in writing

  • Keenly familiar with the journalism profession and culture 

The ideal candidate will have: 

  • Experience in budgeting and organizational operations, including managing volunteers and donor/sponsor/funder relationships

  • Experience ensuring compliance with the letter and spirit of applicable laws, professional guidelines, and operational protocols to maintain the highest levels of performance and accountability 

  • Experience working remotely, including a high level of comfort leading, managing, and influencing via virtual platforms, email, and phone calls

  • A relevant bachelor’s degree or related experience

  • Strong people skills in managing membership needs and interests  

Benefits include:

  • Monthly fee of $4,000 

  • Flexible schedule; approximately 25 hours per week

  • Fully remote work, except for up to two weeks of travel per year.

Applications must be received by Sept. 12, 2024.

As a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, JAWS provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and job applicants.  Our employment policies prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type, regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. JAWS is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, services, programs, and activities.

For further information, contact jobs@jaws.org. 

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