Director of Operations

The Director of Operations has a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing the Café, Private Events & Catering, Retail Market, and Farm operations of Elawa Farm Foundation. This individual will ensure the smooth, profitable, and mission-aligned operation of these business lines, while fostering exceptional guest experience and supporting a collaborative staff culture. The Director of Operations will play a central role in generating sustainable, earned revenue that fuels Elawa Farm Foundation’s mission. Key Responsibilities • Provide vision and strategic direction for earned revenue operations, ensuring alignment with Elawa’s mission and financial goals. • Co-develop and implement annual operating plans and budgets for Café, Catering & Private Events, Market, and Farm operations. • Oversee management staff in the daily operations of Café, Catering & Private Events, and Retail Market to ensure excellence in service, quality, and efficiency. • Provide management oversight of the Farm Department, which stewards the farm fields and surrounding landscape for food production and visitor enjoyment. • Lead, coach, and support management staff across these departments. • Implement and refine systems, processes, and standard operating procedures to support growth, consistency, and operational excellence. • Monitor financial performance, develop and track performance metrics, and adjust strategies to meet revenue, profitability, and cost targets, in partnership with Finance team. • Ensure that Elawa’s mission and values are incorporated into business and programmatic decision-making, including local food procurement, workforce development opportunities, and education access. • Foster a welcoming and accessible visitor experience at Elawa Farm and collaborate with the Executive Director and Program team to identify opportunities for enhancement with the opening of the new Visitor Center and campus signage. • Collaborate with relevant department managers to review and enhance wedding and private event packages, vendor agreements, corporate sponsorships, food costing, and product margins. • Ensure food safety, compliance, and operational excellence across all food and beverage services. • Serve as the primary point of contact for facility maintenance and projects, coordinating with the City of Lake Forest (property owner), the Foundation’s Executive Director, and relevant staff. • Oversee facility staff to ensure a clean, tidy, and welcoming campus environment. • Work closely with Program staff to ensure earned revenue operations support and elevate mission-driven initiatives. • Represent Elawa Farm Foundation with professionalism and enthusiasm to clients, partners, and the broader community. Qualifications • 7 - 10 years of progressively responsible management experience in hospitality, project management, public administration, business management, or related operations. Agriculture experience is not required. • Bachelor's degree in business management, hospitality, public administration, or related field. • Proven ability to manage diverse revenue streams (e.g., food service, retail, catering, events) with strong financial acumen. • Demonstrated success in building and leading high-performing teams. • Exceptional organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills. • Commitment to customer service and creating outstanding guest experiences. • Passion for Elawa Farm Foundation’s mission, with an appreciation for sustainable food systems, community-based programs, and education. • The ideal candidate brings warmth, positivity, and a collaborative spirit to managing a diverse team within Elawa’s community-focused culture. This individual combines a fun, approachable demeanor with excellent attention to detail, financial acumen, responsiveness, and reliable follow-through with communication and task management.