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Project Operations Director Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The Operations Director - USA is accountable for building and running a field-first, delivery ... Delivering projects and defense programs with predictability and speed * Building a high-velocity ...

Assistant Operations Director

Arlington, VA · On-site

$78K - $126K/yr

Partners with the Operations Director to manage Property Operating expenses within or below budget ... Become comfortable with the work process for both capital projects and ongoing services - including ...

The Regional Operations Director oversees facility operations teams of all data centers throughout ... Follow CyrusOne processes on tracking and reviewing project costs, submitting PO requests ...

The Regional Operations Director oversees facility operations teams of all data centers throughout ... Follow CyrusOne processes on tracking and reviewing project costs, submitting PO requests ...

Manages the project execution and coordinates the activities of the various functions supporting ... Provide functional leadership and regular direction to program-specific operations staff.

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Project Operations Director information

What does a project operations director do?

A Project Operations Director is responsible for overseeing the planning, execution, and completion of projects within an organization. They coordinate between different departments, manage resources and budgets, and ensure that projects align with organizational goals and timelines. This role also involves identifying potential risks, implementing process improvements, and maintaining communication with stakeholders to ensure project success. Overall, a Project Operations Director plays a critical role in driving operational excellence and delivering projects efficiently.

How does a project operations director typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure project success?

A Project Operations Director works closely with various departments such as finance, procurement, and human resources to align project goals with organizational objectives. They facilitate regular meetings, coordinate resource allocation, and resolve interdepartmental issues to keep projects on track. Effective communication and relationship-building skills are essential, as the director often bridges gaps between technical teams and senior management, ensuring transparency and timely decision-making. This collaborative approach helps to mitigate risks, improve efficiency, and deliver successful project outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a project operations director?

To thrive as a Project Operations Director, you need advanced project management expertise, strategic planning abilities, and a background in operations, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in business or a related field. Familiarity with project management tools (such as MS Project, Asana, or Jira), ERP systems, and relevant certifications like PMP or PRINCE2 is highly valued. Outstanding leadership, negotiation, and problem-solving skills set exceptional candidates apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring projects are delivered efficiently, on time, and within budget while aligning with organizational goals.

What is the difference between Project Operations Director vs Project Manager?

AspectProject Operations DirectorProject Manager
CredentialsBachelor's degree, PMP or similar certifications often preferredBachelor's degree, PMP or similar certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple projects or departments, strategic focusManages individual projects, tactical focus
ResponsibilitiesSets operational strategy, resource allocation, high-level oversightPlans, executes, and closes projects, manages teams

The Project Operations Director and Project Manager roles share similar credentials and work environments, but differ mainly in scope. The Director focuses on strategic oversight across multiple projects, while the Project Manager handles day-to-day project execution. Both roles are essential in project-driven industries, with the Director providing leadership and the Manager ensuring project success.

What are the most commonly searched types of Project Operations jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Project Operations jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Project Operations Director job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Strategic Operations Director

Alliance Defending Freedom

Fairfax, VA

$119K - $176K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Make a difference with us! At Alliance Defending Freedom, we believe God has brought you here for His purpose—to stand for truth and defend the God-given right to live and speak it. Together, we protect religious freedom, free speech, the sanctity of life, marriage and family, and parental rights. Review our Statement of Faith to ensure we're a fit for you.

Locations: Lansdowne, VA

Team Overview

The Strategic Operations Director serves as the primary operational partner to the EVP of Enterprise Strategy, bringing business discipline, analytical rigor, and hands-on execution to the organization's strategic priorities. In this role, you will manage budgets, build processes, coordinate functions, and deliver results in a real operational environment. You accelerate the EVP's work by taking ownership of complex projects, conducting research and analysis, managing financial reviews, and infusing business-minded thinking.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Project Execution

  • Take full ownership of strategic projects assigned by the EVP, from scoping through delivery — including organizational planning, research initiatives, financial analysis, and operational design work
  • Develop structured analyses, frameworks, and recommendations on questions critical to the organization's mission and growth
  • Prepare internal briefing documents, strategic plans, business cases, and decision memos for senior leadership review
  • Conduct research and benchmarking on organizational, industry, and policy questions relevant to ADF's strategic direction
  • Coordinate with the Office of the CEO as needed to ensure strategic work products align with organizational priorities

Business Operations & Financial Management

  • Support the EVP in reviewing and analyzing organizational financials, budgets, and resource allocation decisions
  • Build financial models, forecasts, and scenario analyses to inform strategic decision-making
  • Identify operational inefficiencies and recommend process improvements that increase effectiveness and stewardship
  • Bring business discipline to organizational planning, ensuring decisions are grounded in sound operational and financial thinking

Cross-Functional Coordination

  • Serve as a liaison between the EVP and other teams, facilitating alignment and ensuring follow-through on strategic initiatives
  • Lead or support cross-functional workstreams, providing structure, accountability, and clear communication
  • Synthesize data and qualitative inputs into clear narratives for senior leadership consumption

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Operations, Public Policy, or related field
  • 7+ years of progressive experience in operations management, strategic planning, business management, or a directly comparable operational role
  • Demonstrated success as a COO, Operations Director, or equivalent in a small-to-mid-size organization
  • Hands-on experience managing budgets, building processes, and delivering measurable results

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in a for-profit business in a competitive, growth-minded environment

Pay & Benefits

At Alliance Defending Freedom, we offer a competitive compensation and benefits package to support your well-being and growth. While we do not disclose specific salary ranges, our compensation is competitive with top non-profit law firms. Our benefits include 100% covered medical and dental insurance, medical and dependent care reimbursement, paid disability, long-term care, life insurance, and a 401(k) plan with a 4% company match. We prioritize work-life balance with paid time off and 12 paid holidays each year.

Want to Know More About ADF?

This salary range is reflective of a position based in Lansdowne, VA. This range is a good-faith estimate, and the actual salary may vary based on the candidate's experience, skills, qualifications, and office location.

Virginia Salary Range
$119,000—$176,000 USD