Senior Operations Manager

Job Description

Join Planetary Guardians as a Senior Operations Manager, where you'll lead the establishment of a groundbreaking initiative to protect our planet. If you thrive on operational excellence, and meaningful collaboration, this fully remote role offers the chance to drive impactful change for the planet's future. 

About Planetary Guardians 

Planetary Guardians is a new initiative in partnership with Johan Rockström, Virgin Unite, and other partners to accelerate the Planetary Boundaries as a measurement and operating framework for the world. The latest research reveals that 6 of the 9 critical earth systems that keep our planet in balance have exceeded their safe operating space and are at risk of crossing dangerous tipping points. Our mission is to help humanity return to a safe operating space across all Planetary Boundaries and restore a healthy partnership with the earth. The initiative will be supported by a lean team of highly capable individuals with a deep passion for the planet.  

Tell me more 

• Establish Operational Foundations: Transition Planetary Guardians to an independent entity, ensuring 501c3 legal requirements, governance structures, and operational functions (HR, finance, audit, IT, procurement, legal, Tax, CRM) are in place. 

• Drive Strategic Planning: Manage annual planning, budgeting, and OKR (objectives and key results) tracking. 

• Oversee BAU Operations: Lead day-to-day operations, including supplier relationships, contracts, people management, recruitment plans, onboarding, benefits, and financial management. 

• Governance and Compliance: Ensure adherence to charitable laws, engage external legal support (as required), manage due diligence processes, prepare annual charity reports, and maintain up-to-date policies and insurance coverage. 

• Data and Systems Management: Oversee data governance, CRM systems, and partner/donor vetting, while effectively communicating impact metrics. 

• Event and Special Project Coordination: Manage logistics, vendor relations, and schedules for major events, while leading special projects as required. 

• Board Management and Reporting: Coordinate Board meetings and prepare relevant materials, alongside fulfilling reporting requirements for internal stakeholders, external partners, and regulators. 

What you’ll need 

• Experienced Leader: Proven track record in managing operations, financials, and contracts, ideally with experience in startups or nonprofits, and a passion for managing cross-functional teams. 

• Strategic Thinker and Problem-Solver: Strong project management skills, adept at strategic planning, navigating ambiguity, and handling complex initiatives with a solutions-oriented approach. 

• Collaborative Team Player: A people-focused communicator who builds strong relationships, fosters teamwork, and inspires support across all levels. 

• Highly Organized Multitasker: Thrives in high-energy environments, juggling time-sensitive priorities with excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. 

• Project and Relationship Management: Fosters strong internal and external relationships, underpinned by exceptional communication skills and the ability to influence key stakeholders to manage risks and deliver on organizational goals. 

• Continuous Improvement Mindset: Always looking for opportunities to innovate and improve, with an understanding of both immediate and long-term impacts of policies and procedures. 

• Passionate Changemaker: Deeply committed to social and environmental issues, with a belief in science, collective leadership, and partnerships to drive meaningful change. 

• Dynamic and Accountable: Brings urgency, accountability, and an ability to inspire action while remaining flexible and open to new ideas. 

The extra details 

Role type: 2-Year Fixed Term Contract 

Location: London or New York. Open to other geographic locations (subject to relevant laws and regulations). 

Salary: GBP £65,000 - £80,000 (London) or US$110,000 - $135,000 (New York) 

Working hours: Full time 

Closing date: 25th February 2025