Director, Governance and Executive Operations

At USA for UNHCR, our people are the driving force behind our mission of delivering hope and opportunity to refugees worldwide. We're not just a workplace - we're a vibrant community of passionate, forward-thinking professionals committed to making a real difference. If you thrive in a dynamic, transparent, and data-driven environment, and want your career to directly impact lives across the globe, we invite you to join us!

SUMMARY

The Director, Governance and Executive Operations is responsible for the operational integrity of USA for UNHCR's board governance and the systems that enable executive-level decision-making. This is a tech-adept, systems-oriented role that exists to make board engagement easier and more efficient for the CEO and Executive Leadership Group (ELG).

Reporting to the VP, Strategy and Impact, the Director leads the design and administration of board governance systems with a mandate to replace complexity with simplicity. The role is grounded in sense-making: translating governance requirements into rational, well-administered processes that support fiduciary duty without adding friction.

The Director partners closely with the ELG to deliver board materials, manage governance operations, and bring executive decisions through to execution. The role supervises the Senior Executive Coordinator and oversees the integrated functioning of the Executive Office.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Board Governance Operations (50%)

• Lead the operational lifecycle of the Board and its committees, including agenda coordination, materials production, meeting logistics, minutes, and action follow-through
• Own administration of the board management system and ensure all charters, bylaws, policies, committee materials, and governance documentation are current, accurate, and well-organized
• Audit and continuously improve board systems to reduce complexity and eliminate redundancy
• Prepare the CEO and ELG for board engagements with anticipatory thinking and decision-ready materials
• Track governance compliance, including attendance, conflict-of-interest disclosures, term tracking, and fiduciary process integrity
• Serve as the primary operational point of contact for board members on logistical and process matters

Executive Office Operations (35%)

• Design and operate the systems that support ELG-level execution, including decision logs, project tracking, and follow-through accountability
• Partner with the ELG on meeting design, pre-reads, agendas, and cadence so executive time is used effectively
• Coordinate organizational calendar planning across board meetings, ELG meetings, all-staff meetings, and major milestones
• Maintain Executive Office documentation, version control, and institutional records
• Provide direct supervision and development of the Senior Executive Coordinator, including coordination of Executive Office logistics and in-person Board meeting execution

Strategic Execution Support (10%)

• Support the VP, Strategy and Impact in operationalizing 2030 strategy execution through milestone tracking and progress reporting
• Translate ELG decisions into clear execution plans with defined owners and timelines

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field
• 14+ year of progressive experience directly managing nonprofit board governance operations, including board and committee administration, governance documentation, board materials, minutes, compliance tracking, fiduciary process support, and board management systems.
• Demonstrated expertise in nonprofit board governance standards and fiduciary responsibilities
• Demonstrated tech adeptness with board management systems and standard executive collaboration tools
• Track record of building, simplifying, or improving governance and operational systems
• People management experience, with the ability to lead, develop, and support a direct report
• Strong written and verbal communication, with consistent ability to simplify complex information
• High discretion and sound judgment in handling confidential governance and executive matters
• Strong project management discipline and ability to operate across functions
• Experience supporting CEO and Executive operations in a nonprofit or mission-driven organization
• Experience auditing or rebuilding governance platforms or operating systems

WORK LOCATION  
Hybrid + New York City, may include travel up to 20% domestically

COMPENSATION 

$164,854 - $179,842

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Please apply immediately or by June 15,2026.

WHY YOU'LL WORKING HERE

We're proud to be consistently recognized as a Great Place to Work, a reflection of our deep commitment to employee well-being, growth, and purpose. Our benefits are designed to support your whole life, not just your work life. While specific offerings may evolve over time, highlights currently include:

• Comprehensive health coverage, including employer-paid employee medical options (traditional and HSA plans)
• Flexible savings accounts, including FSA and HSA
• Industry-leading 401(k) match
• Lifestyle Spending Account to support your wellness
• Mental and financial wellness resources
• Paid time off, including a paid winter break and sabbatical leave at key milestones
• Volunteer Time-Off to support your community engagement
• Professional development support
• Access to tools like Headspace for mindfulness and mental health

Please note: Benefits are reviewed regularly and subject to change.

DISABILITY SPECIFICATIONS 

USA for UNHCR will make reasonable accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. 

USA for UNHCR is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Refugees and all other protected classes are encouraged to apply.

Why Join USA for UNHCR?

Joining USA for UNHCR means becoming part of a people-first organization that lives its values every day. We're passionate about creating meaningful change, dynamic in our collaborative approach, and transparent in how we work together to support refugees. By embracing cutting-edge solutions and a data-driven mindset, we stay forward-thinking, ensuring your unique talents fuel innovation and impact. Here, you'll grow alongside a supportive team, develop your skills in a nurturing environment, and see the transformative power of your work - on the lives of refugees and on your own journey. 

Ready to make a difference while being a part of a team that truly cares about you? We'd love to hear from you! Apply today, and let's create a brighter future together.