About the Role
GiveDirectly is seeking a visionary and execution-oriented Senior Manager of Business Operations to join our mission-driven team. In this role, you will be at the heart of an organization that has delivered over $1 billion in direct cash assistance to more than 2 million people living in poverty across 15 countries. We are looking for a leader who thrives in a candid, analytical, and non-hierarchical environment where high ownership is the standard. You will be responsible for bridging the gap between strategic vision and operational excellence, ensuring that our systems and processes can keep pace with our rapid global scaling. As one of Time100’s Most Influential Companies, we pride ourselves on being a data-driven entity that values dignity, efficiency, and evidence-based impact.
This role is designed for a professional who is passionate about building sustainable systems and who possesses the analytical rigor to evaluate our performance objectively. You will work closely with leadership to navigate the complexities of international aid, helping us maintain our reputation as one of the most cost-effective and scalable forms of humanitarian assistance. Your contributions will directly influence our ability to reach the next million recipients, making this a high-stakes opportunity for someone ready to apply their operational expertise toward solving global poverty at scale.
Key Responsibilities- Design and implement organizational-wide operational strategies that enhance efficiency across our global footprint in 15+ countries.
- Lead high-priority cross-functional projects that integrate finance, legal, and program departments to streamline the delivery of cash transfers.
- Analyze complex operational datasets to identify bottlenecks and develop data-driven solutions that improve organizational agility.
- Collaborate with country-level directors to standardize best practices while ensuring flexibility for local context and regulatory requirements.
- Manage organizational resource planning, including budget oversight and human capital allocation, to support long-term growth objectives.
- Champion the GiveDirectly culture of candid and analytical feedback, fostering a professional environment where merit and evidence drive decision-making.
- Develop and monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to track the health of business operations and report findings to the executive leadership team.
- Evaluate and procure technology solutions or internal tools that facilitate better communication and workflow management across remote teams.
- Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in business operations, management consulting, or a strategic leadership role within a high-growth startup or large-scale international NGO.
- Proven ability to manage complex projects with multiple stakeholders in a fast-paced, remote-first environment.
- Exceptional analytical skills with a proficiency in financial modeling, data visualization, and operational auditing.
- Demonstrated leadership experience with a track record of mentoring teams and promoting a culture of high ownership and professional growth.
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to distill complex operational challenges into actionable insights for non-technical stakeholders.
- A deep commitment to GiveDirectly’s mission and an alignment with our values of transparency, humility, and evidence-based intervention.
- Experience working in or with emerging markets is highly preferred, as is an understanding of international regulatory and compliance landscapes.
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business Administration, Economics, International Development, or a related field.
- Remote-first work environment, allowing for flexibility and a healthy work-life balance from anywhere in the world.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans designed to support you and your family.
- Generous paid time off policy and a company-wide commitment to preventing burnout and supporting mental health.
- The opportunity to work with some of the brightest minds in the social impact sector at a Time100 Most Influential Company.
- Robust professional development budget and clear pathways for career advancement within a non-hierarchical structure.
- A mission-driven culture where your work directly translates to improving the lives of millions of people globally.
- Access to a global network of experts and partners in the fields of economics, public policy, and technology.