Operations Manager

Food Connect is a nonprofit organization dedicated to bridging gaps in the food system and building healthier, more connected communities. We combine logistics, technology, and people to ensure good food reaches those who need it most—efficiently, equitably, and respectfully.

Location: Hybrid, 80% remote with 20% occasional in-person meetings (must be located in the Kansas City Area)

Position Type: Full-time, Salaried

Salary Range: $55,000 - $65,000 annually (based on experience)

Reports To: Director of Operations

Position Overview:

The Operations Manager will serve as a point of contact between donors, drivers, and partner organizations. This position ensures that every donation gets picked up, delivered, and documented accurately. This role focuses on creating and maintaining efficient systems that allows our team and independent contractor (IC) drivers to operate seamlessly. With a dedicated programs team, the Operations Manager will optimize routes, eliminate bottlenecks, and implement best practices across all logistics processes. While this position is remote, candidates must be located in the the Kansas City Area for occasional in-person meetings and team collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Logistics Coordination & Dispatch
  • Oversee all operations of the logistics department, ensuring streamlined workflows and smooth execution of day-to-day deliveries.
  • Monitor Food Connect’s logistics platform in real-time for new donation requests and open routes
  • Contact food donors to confirm pickup details, including quantity, perishability, and location
  • Assign and communicate pickup tasks to available drivers
  • Monitor deliveries and programs team to ensure smooth execution for assigned programs.
  • Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, including food safety standards and transportation requirements.

• Coverage Management
  • Oversee the network of IC drivers to ensure the highest quality of delivery services, implementing accountability measures for food safety and customer satisfaction.
  • Handle coverage for programs team and driver pool to maintain smooth operations
  • Help onboard new driver partners in collaboration with programs team
  • Provide real-time feedback and coordinate with the Director of Operations to troubleshoot and resolve issues.

• Donor & Partner Communication
  • Confirm delivery logistics with recipient organizations to ensure availability and readiness
  • Communicate clearly and respectfully with all stakeholders, providing real-time updates as needed
  • Participate in video meetings with external stakeholders to coordinate activities and improve service delivery. Additional tasks as assigned.
• Platform Accuracy & Data Entry
  • Ensure accurate and timely documentation of all food pickups, drop-offs, and issues
  • Flag and troubleshoot missed or delayed pickups with urgency
  • Maintain clean, consistent records in our system to support reporting and funder requirements
  • Identify and resolve operational inefficiencies and bottlenecks to improve department-wide productivity.

Qualifications:

• Experience:
  • 3+ years of experience in operations management, with proven success in streamlining processes and driving efficiencies.
  • Strong organizational, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills.
  • Experience in managing and motivating teams to meet performance goals.
  • Analytical mindset, with proficiency in using data to make informed decisions and improvements.
• Skills and Competencies:
  • Expertise in using technology tools and systems to maintain high operational efficiency.
  • Excellent organizational skills with high attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and/or other client software programs
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate across departments.
  • Knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices.
• Location Requirement:
  • This is a remote position, but applicants must reside in the Kansas City Area for occasional in-person meetings.
• Education:
  • Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, business administration, or a related field is preferred.

Food Connect’s Values:

• We are committed to fighting food insecurity and food waste through innovation and partnerships.
• We value diversity and encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply.
• We prioritize collaboration, transparency, and a high level of integrity in all that we do.

Additional Benefits:

• Paid Time Off: 10 vacation days + 5 sick days + 1 birthday leave + 1 work anniversary leave
• 12 Paid Holidays per year
• Healthcare benefits
• 401k benefits plan
• 4 week paid sabbatical policy after 5 years of employment at Food Connect

How to Apply:

To apply, email your updated resume and a brief cover letter to hiring@foodconnectgroup.com with the subject line "Operations Manager."

Don’t meet every single requirement?

Research indicates that women and people of color often hesitate to apply for jobs unless they meet all qualifications. At Food Connect, we value diversity and inclusivity. If you're excited about these roles but don't meet every requirement, we still encourage you to apply, you might be the perfect fit!

• Paid Time Off: 10 vacation days + 5 sick days + 1 birthday leave + 1 work anniversary leave
• 12 Paid Holidays per year
• Healthcare benefits
• 401k benefits plan
• 4 week paid sabbatical policy after 5 years of employment at Food Connect