Operations Program Manager (Washington, D.C.)

The University of Notre Dame is more than a workplace! We are a vibrant, mission-driven community where every employee is valued and supported. Rooted in a tradition of excellence and inspired by our Catholic character, Notre Dame is committed to fostering an environment of care that nurtures the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Here, you will find a deep sense of belonging, a culture that prioritizes well-being, and the opportunity to grow your career while being a force for good in the world. Whether contributing to world-class research, shaping the student experience, or supporting the University’s mission in other ways, you will be part of a dedicated team working to make a meaningful impact on campus and beyond. At Notre Dame, your work matters, and so do you!

The Keough School of Global Affairs advances human dignity through research, teaching, and practice centered on the development of the whole person. Its Washington, D.C. office connects Notre Dame’s research with policymakers across the political spectrum, offering networking and policy engagement opportunities for faculty, students, and stakeholders.

Position Summary

The Operations Program Manager leads operational, logistical, and administrative functions for the Washington Office. This role expands the office's capacity for strategic programming, policy outreach, and relationship cultivation. It is ideal for a proactive, highly organized professional dedicated to operational excellence.

Status: Full-time, In-person (Washington, D.C.) Schedule: Standard business hours; requires occasional evenings/weekends for events.

Key Responsibilities

1. Event Management & Policy Engagement

• End-to-End Execution: Lead planning, logistics, and strategy for Washington Office events and high-level VIP visits under the Executive Director's guidance.
• Logistics & Vendors: Serve as principal decision-maker for venue selection, resource allocation, and onsite staffing. Manage vendor contracts, guest itineraries, travel, and accommodations.
• Tech & Communications: Oversee event A/V and tech setup. Manage guest lists, communications, and collateral using established templates.
• Collaboration & Standardization: Liaison with other Notre Dame units and establish event best practices in partnership with the campus-based Events Strategy Director.

2. Student Engagement & Academic Administration

• Academic Delivery: Administer the operational delivery of up to three courses annually, including seminars, electives, and immersion courses.
• Immersion Trips: Direct logistics and onsite oversight for two annual student immersion programs (the MGA trip and undergraduate career trek).
• Student Support: Execute professional development opportunities (career panels, networking) and serve as the primary programmatic student liaison in D.C.

3. Operations Oversight & Budgetary Accountability

• Office & Facility Management: Oversee daily operations, manage the booking calendar, coordinate maintenance, and direct the procurement of office supplies and resources.
• Front-of-House & Supervision: Hire, train, and supervise student workers. Act as the primary receptionist for visitors and general inquiries.
• Physical Setup: Handle physical setup/breakdown of furniture and A/V equipment for classes and meetings.
• Financial Management: Manage the office budget, track event expenditures, and process expense reconciliations in coordination with the Executive Director and Finance Director.

4. CRM & Data Management

• Database Optimization: Maintain and optimize engagement data within the office CRM in collaboration with the campus communications team.
• Strategic Insights: Analyze contact data from policy engagements to support outreach and relationship-building goals. Tracking alumni in international development and foreign policy.

• Education: Bachelor’s degree (4 years)
• Skills and Experience:
  •  2–3 years of relevant experience in office management, event coordination, or program administration
  • Strong organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Proactive, self-directed work style with the ability to anticipate needs and solve problems independently Comfort with in-person, logistical, and hands-on work
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Suite, and calendar/booking systems
  • Interest in global affairs, international development, or foreign policy preferred

Compensation: Up to $79,000/year, commensurate with experience

This position will be accepting applications until June 30, 2026.

The University of Notre Dame seeks to attract, develop, and retain the highest quality faculty, staff and administration. The University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or age in employment. Moreover, Notre Dame prohibits discrimination against veterans or disabled qualified individuals, and complies with 41 CFR 60-741.5(a) and 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). We strongly encourage applications from candidates attracted to a university with a Catholic identity.