About FirstPrinciples:
FirstPrinciples is a non-profit foundation dedicated to advancing our understanding of the universe's fundamental principles. Our mission is to drive scientific breakthroughs that have a lasting, global impact by harnessing technological innovation, data-driven strategies, powerful communication, and strategic research funding. We envision a future where deep scientific knowledge catalyzes transformative progress for humanity.
Job Description:
FirstPrinciples is seeking a visionary and results-driven Director of Operations to play a pivotal role in establishing and scaling our foundation. The Director of Operations will work closely with the Founder of FirstPrinciples and Finance Director to shape the strategic direction of the organization and ensure the successful execution of our mission.
Key Responsibilities:
Foundation Operations:
- Lead the establishment and management of the foundation's operational infrastructure, including financial systems, human resources, regulatory compliance and administrative processes.
- Build scalable systems that allow the foundation to adapt and grow.
- Develop and implement organizational policies, procedures, and workflows.
Strategic Planning:
- Contribute to shaping the organization's vision and mission.
- Collaborate with the executive team to develop and implement strategic plans, including short-term and long-term goals, to guide the foundation's growth and impact.
- Monitor progress toward strategic goals and make data-driven recommendations for improvements.
- Assess risks and opportunities in the ever-evolving landscape of scientific research.
Grant Management and Project Selection:
- Collaborate with the Research Director to develop and oversee the grant application and review process.
- Ensure that research projects align with the foundation's mission and goals.
- Manage grant disbursement and reporting to ensure efficient allocation of resources.
- Develop and maintain relationships with grant recipients and research partners.
Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC):
- Help establish and manage the Scientific Advisory Committee, composed of experts in theoretical and experimental physics.
- Collaborate with SAC members and Research Director to evaluate and approve research projects for funding, aligning with the foundation's mission and priorities.
- Foster a dynamic dialogue among SAC members to identify emerging research trends.
Research Effectiveness:
- Collaborate with the Research Director to design and implement frameworks and KPIs to measure the effectiveness of scientific research funded by FirstPrinciples.
- Define objectives, set research goals, monitor progress, and build a framework of key performance indicators to measure success.
- Ensure that research projects funded by the foundation are impactful and align with our mission.
Financial Management:
- Work with the finance team to develop budgets, manage financial resources, and ensure transparent financial reporting.
- Ensure the responsible stewardship of the foundation's financial assets.
- Develop strategies for fundraising and diversifying revenue streams to support the foundation's long-term goals.
Compliance and Reporting:
- Ensure compliance with all relevant legal and regulatory requirements.
- Prepare reports and documentation for donors, partners, and stakeholders.
- Maintain a high standard of transparency and accountability.
- Advocate for ethical and responsible research practices within the foundation.
Team Leadership:
- Recruit, manage, and mentor a growing team of professionals as the foundation expands.
- Build a high-performance culture, fostering a collaborative and results-oriented work environment.
- Empower team members to excel in their roles.
- Mentor and develop staff to enhance their skills and capabilities.
- Create a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
Stakeholder Engagement:
- Collaborate with external partners, researchers, and the scientific community to strengthen FirstPrinciples' global presence and impact.
- Establish and nurture strategic alliances and collaborations that advance the foundation's mission.
- Engage with thought leaders and policymakers to advocate for the importance of theoretical physics research.
Communication and Outreach:
- Support the Marketing and Communications Manager in developing and executing a comprehensive communication strategy.
- Engage with donors and the public to raise awareness of the foundation's mission and impact.
- Develop compelling narratives that convey the significance of the foundation's work to diverse audiences.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in business administration, non-profit management, or related field (Master's degree preferred).
- Proven experience in operations management, preferably in a non-profit, scientific, or research-focused organization.
- Strong strategic planning and execution skills. A track record of successfully developing and implementing strategic initiatives.
- Ability to build and manage effective teams. Experience in leadership and staff development.
- Exceptional project management and organizational skills. Detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities. Proficient in building and maintaining relationships with diverse stakeholders.
- Understanding of scientific research and the ability to measure its impact. Familiarity with the field of theoretical physics is a plus.
- Passion for advancing knowledge in theoretical physics and a commitment to the foundation's mission.
- Flexibility to travel as required for the role.
Application Process:
- Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume, a cover letter detailing their qualifications and vision for the role, and references. Please include "Director of Operations Application" in the cover letter.
Join us at FirstPrinciples and be part of a transformative journey where science drives progress and unlocks the potential of humanity.
