Director of Operations

Job Title: Director of Operations

Department: Management

Reports To: Chief Executive Officer

Revision Date: October 18, 2024

Cushman & Wakefield | Boerke

Cushman & Wakefield | Boerke is a leading commercial real estate brokerage firm deeply rooted in Wisconsin. Since 1921, we have been providing commercial real estate users, owners, and developers with strategic solutions for their business and operational space needs. Our alliance with Cushman & Wakefield allows us to serve the local business community and commercial real estate market by offering national and global reach.

Job Summary

Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the Director of Operations manages key aspects of the company’s day-to-day operations including strategic planning, operational management, budgeting and financial stewardship, employee management/human resources, and corporate administration. This role will be a key leader supporting the day-to-day of the CEO.

This role involves developing and implementing strategies, policies, and procedures to ensure efficient operations and effective support across these areas. The Director of Operations will collaborate with the CEO, team heads and other senior managers to align the operational and administrative needs of the company with the organization’s goals and objectives. Additionally, the Director leads a team of professionals and works closely with external lenders, vendors and partners to achieve best-in-class results.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities

Support to CEO

• Deliver, design and implement CEO agenda through strategic calendar management, proactively anticipate needs, and CEO management processes.
• Deliver, design and implement executive-level and board agenda. Including strategic meeting management, program and project management and board and subcommittee governance.
• Drive the management process through the design, development and alignment of Key Performance Indicators and maintain balanced scorecard to drive company accountability and performance.

Budget Management & Financial Stewardship

• Facilitate the creation and monitoring of the company’s operating budget.
• Oversee the closing and reconciliations of the company’s financial statements.
• Establish and enforce accounting policies to ensure proper internal controls.
• Manage all vendor agreements and contracts; oversee the accounts payable/receivable function.
• Proactively prepare financial reports for leadership that includes analysis and recommendations.
• Coordinate with outside CPA firms to prepare tax returns and other government filings.
• Oversee the sourcing and bidding for various insurance coverages, licenses, and permits.
• Support CEO as a point of contact for the Company’s banking relationships.
• Ensure accuracy and compliance by reviewing the contract process, deal documentation, and commission-related process.
• Align operational efforts with financial forecasting by reporting on revenue and the pipeline management process.

Employee Management/Human Resources Support

• Manage the company’s human resource vendor to ensure the employee experience aligns with the organization’s goal and of being a “best place to work.”
• Develop modern human resource strategies, policies, and procedures that attract and retain high-performing talent and that are fair, transparent, and equitable.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of employee engagement initiatives to foster a positive work environment and enhance employee satisfaction.
• Design and implement a holistic performance management program, including corporate and individuals goals, performance reviews, and training and development plans.

Corporate Administration

• Serve as administrative lead and a point of contact for national Cushman & Wakefield alliance. Prepare required reporting, administer credentials, passwords, access rights, and all other obligations to ensure a smooth day-to-day experience.
• Manage the company’s information technology vendor. Identify, contract, and ensure vendor is exceeding expectations to deliver an effective, efficient, and uninterrupted technology experience in the office and remotely for all employees.
• Ensure Boerke brokers and professional staff comply with all local, state, and national licensing and regulatory requirements.
• All other projects, duties, and tasks necessary to ensure the operations of the Company are consistent with best-in-class performance.

Experience

• Education: Bachelor’s degree.
• Experience: 7+ years of professional experience in a similar or adjacent role. Proven experience as a player-coach, collaborating effectively with peers, supervising staff, and leading others without direct supervisory accountability. Strong business and operational acumen.

Job Requirements

• Exceptional organizational and time management skills to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines.
• Attention to detail and the ability to maintain accurate records and documentation are critical.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills to identify issues, develop creative solutions, and make informed decisions.
• The Director should be able to anticipate challenges, proactively address them, and provide recommendations for process improvements.
• Proven project and process management experience with expertise in optimizing company operations.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills to effectively interact with internal and external stakeholders.
• The ability to convey financial information clearly, negotiate contracts, and build relationships with vendors, lenders, and business partners is essential.
• Strong leadership abilities to effectively lead and manage others and oversee multiple functions. Demonstrated experience in providing guidance, coaching, and support to team members to ensure optimal performance and productivity.
• Promotes cross-functional alignment through the adoption of best-practice processes, transparent communications, and collaborative problem-solving.
• Proficiency in using relevant software and technology tools, such as Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), accounting management systems (QuickBooks preferred), and other administrative software. Familiarity with accounting software and customer relationship management (CRM) systems is beneficial.
• Strong interpersonal skills to foster positive relationships with team members, clients, vendors, and other stakeholders. The Director should demonstrate professionalism, tact, and diplomacy in all interactions.

Preferred Qualifications

• In-depth understanding of business operations, financial management, and budgeting. Experience with data analysis and decision-making based on key performance indicators (KPIs) and operational metrics.
• Experience in identifying operational inefficiencies and implementing process improvements to enhance productivity, streamline operations, and drive cost savings.
• Ability to build and develop high-performing teams, fostering a positive and inclusive work culture while promoting individual growth and professional development.
• Familiarity with the real estate industry including an understanding of relevant regulations, market trends, and competitive landscape.
• Experience in leading and managing organizational change, including the ability to adapt to new technologies, processes, and market dynamics.
• Advanced degree (e.g., MBA) and/or equivalent experience is desirable.

Physical Requirements:

• The ability to move within the office environment and navigate different areas of the organization’s facilities. May include walking, standing, and occasionally climbing stairs.
• Proficiency in using office equipment, such as computers, printers, scanners, and telephones. This may require fine motor skills and the ability to operate equipment for extended periods.
• Clear vision to read and review documents, reports, and other written materials. This may include the ability to view information on computer screens and in printed format.
• Adequate hearing to effectively communicate with colleagues, stakeholders, and team members. This includes the ability to listen actively and participate in meetings and discussions.
• The ability to maintain mental and physical energy throughout the workday. This may involve extended periods of concentration, multitasking, and managing various responsibilities simultaneously.
• The Director may need to travel occasionally for meetings, conferences, or site visits. This may involve air travel, driving, or other modes of transportation.