Job Description
Overview of Kinnect Kinnect is an Ohio-based non-profit organization dedicated to developing KinFirst strategies and delivering programs that strengthen kinship connections and inclusive support networks for families, young people, and children. Kinnect has spent 20 years collaborating with families, public agencies, and private providers to ensure young people and families have the belonging, resources, and relationships they need to thrive. Kinnect’s purpose, vision, and guiding principles center family and kin and promote a KinFirst culture in every aspect of our service delivery and advocacy efforts for families, young people, and children. Kin is family, family is kin, and whether relationships involve relatives or chosen family connections, a KinFirst culture is the way we work and live each day. Kinnect is proud to be a nationally recognized leader and pioneer in the field, which led to the development of KinnectU, a training, consulting, and replication branch of Kinnect, to provide these services to all child- and family-serving organizations. Our programs include the Ohio Kinship and Adoption Navigator (OhioKAN) program, Kinnect to Family (KTF), and Youth Centered Permanency Roundtables (YCPRT). Kinnect is grateful to receive support from a variety of sources, including contracts with government entities, partnerships with nonprofits, generous grants, and invaluable donations from foundations and private donors. Position Summary The Operations Manager is responsible for supporting the design and deployment of the operational infrastructure required to support Kinnect’s mission and strategic plan. In close partnership with the Chief Operating Officer, Kinnect’s leadership team and the Board, the Operations Manager will be accountable for aligning resources and processes to best achieve specific key performance indicators. The Operations Manager plays a vital supportive role in ensuring the effective and mission-driven operation of the organization. This position works collaboratively across teams to foster a culture of trust, transparency, and shared accountability. The Operations Manager identifies opportunities to improve efficiency, strengthen systems, and streamline processes, while also helping to address operational challenges and gaps. By providing timely insights, analysis, and operational information, this role supports the Chief Operating Officer and leadership team in making informed decisions that advance the organization’s mission and strategic objectives. The Operations Manager is also responsible for the documentation, implementation, and ongoing maintenance of operational processes and procedures to support sustainability, compliance, and organizational effectiveness. The Operations Manager should be highly motivated, able to handle a fast-paced work environment, ambiguity and manage multiple priorities successfully with a positive attitude and willingness to work through and manage change. Essential Functions Serve as a central point of contact for internal operations, ensuring effective communication across departments. Directly supervise, coach, and support a team of Coordinators to ensure high performance, accountability, and professional growth. Build processes and procedures that align with the goals of the organization. In partnership with the Chief Operating Officer, works to support a high performing and team-oriented culture through effective policies/practices. Work as a member of the leadership team to devise strategies and policies to meet the emerging demands of Kinnect. Act as a primary point of contact with the technology vendor, regarding contract administration and compliance. Review, retain and communicate technology-related policies and procedures as developed by the vendor. Monitor user experience and suggest improvements. Manage and monitor MOU process, service level agreements (SLAs), and contracts to assess compliance with organizational vendors. Address and resolve performance issues with vendors while building positive working relationships with vendors and contractors. Consider the needs of external partners and internal team members and incorporate them into strategic plans and processes. Monitor special projects to ensure bandwidth and quality. Convene regular update meetings and follow up on issues that are not resolved. Review vendor bills and assist in resolving issues as needed in partnership with the Office Coordinators and Finance Team. Coordinate training activities, as needed. Provide a strong executive presence and ability to interact with Board members. Develop and implement new strategies and procedures. Support the Chief Operating Officer and Program Directors in improving, de