Description

Job Summary

The Director of International Operations provides strategic and operational leadership to ensure the successful execution of global programs from concept through implementation, monitoring, and closeout. This role serves as a key operational connector across program operations, development, marketing, compliance, finance, and senior leadership, ensuring excellence, transparency, and coordination in complex international environments. The position is highly collaborative and hands-on, focused on building scalable systems, strengthening operational processes, managing risk, and supporting teams working across multiple countries.

Key Responsibilities

Program Cycle Leadership

Support regional leaders in developing actionable plans, advising on program design, compliance, and risk management
Partner with senior leadership to operationalize the full international program lifecycle from planning through evaluation
Ensure accurate, timely data on activities, funding, impact, and risk is available to leadership
Lead or support annual and quarterly planning, including priorities, resources, and operational goals
Identify and implement operational innovations to improve agility, scalability, and impact
Cross-Departmental Coordination

Represent international operations in collaboration with development, marketing, compliance, and finance teams
Ensure timely and accurate program information supports fundraising, donor relations, and communications
Coordinate with compliance and finance teams to support regulatory requirements, contracts, and third-party processes
Assist regional teams in resolving operational and compliance-related issues
Operational Systems, Information Management & Reporting

Guide governance and continuous improvement of program and project management tools
Develop dashboards and reports to inform leadership and stakeholders on progress, risks, and impact
Identify and implement process improvements that enhance efficiency, coordination, and visibility
Risk Management, Travel & Safety

Oversee international travel approvals and tracking, ensuring appropriate risk mitigation measures
Support development and implementation of risk assessment and mitigation practices
Coordinate safety, security, and readiness training needs in collaboration with internal stakeholders
Team Leadership & Capability Building

Identify training, software, and capability needs to improve team performance and safety
Oversee research and procurement for operational tools and services
Mentor and support staff, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in international relations, public policy, business administration, nonprofit management, or a related field
Extensive experience in international operations or program management in complex, multi-country environments
Proven ability to manage multi-stakeholder initiatives across diverse geographies
Strong experience building or improving operational systems, processes, and reporting tools
Proficiency with program and project management platforms and data reporting tools
Excellent communication, coordination, and problem-solving skills
Highly organized, adaptable, and mission-driven
Preferred Qualifications

Experience working with government, defense, diplomatic, or international partners
Knowledge of compliance, export controls, contracting, and third-party vetting
Experience collaborating with development, marketing, or fundraising teams
Familiarity with international risk assessment and mitigation practices
Prior military experience
This role is ideal for a seasoned international operations leader who excels at building systems, managing risk, and enabling teams to deliver impact effectively in challenging global environments.