Director of Operations

About CIRS:

The Cultural Institutions Retirement System (“CIRS”) administers three multiemployer benefit plans (a defined benefit pension plan, a 401(k) savings plan, and a group life insurance plan) serving approximately 200 daycare centers and 50 cultural institutions throughout the New York City area, including organizations such as the American Museum of Natural History and the Wildlife Conservation Society.

Established in 1962, CIRS provides retirement and related benefits to more than 24,000 members, including over 8,000 active childcare and cultural institution employees. CIRS is committed to safeguarding the financial wellbeing and retirement security of its participants.

Position Summary:

CIRS is seeking an experienced and strategic Director of Operations to oversee the day-to-day administration and operational functions of its benefit plans. This leadership role is responsible for ensuring operational excellence, regulatory compliance, process efficiency, and high-quality service delivery to plan participants, employers, and stakeholders.

The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, deep knowledge of multiemployer benefit plan administration, and the ability to drive operational improvements in a collaborative and mission-driven environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Leadership

• Oversee daily administrative operations for CIRS benefit plans.
  
• Monitor internal operations, staff performance, and external vendors to ensure efficient, accurate service delivery and compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including ERISA, IRC, and DOL requirements.
  
• Ensure timely and accurate processing of participant transactions and benefit payments.
  

Operational Accuracy & Controls

• Establish, implement, and monitor operational policies, procedures, and service standards.
  
• Maintain appropriate audit and internal control procedures for benefit calculations, payment processing, and data verification.
  
• Prioritize workloads and resolve escalated participant and customer service issues.
  

Staff Leadership & Development

• Lead, mentor, and support department leaders and staff.
  
• Foster a collaborative, accountable, and high-performing work environment.
  
• Promote organizational effectiveness through staff development and operational best practices.
  

Process Improvement & Strategic Initiatives

• Drive operational and strategic improvement initiatives.
  
• Participate in business planning and budgeting processes.
  
• Identify opportunities for automation, workflow enhancements, and operational efficiencies, and implement effective solutions.
  

Compliance & Regulatory Oversight

• Help ensure operational procedures comply with plan provisions and applicable federal laws and regulations.
  
• Escalate compliance concerns when appropriate.
  
• Remain informed regarding regulatory developments and changes affecting plan administration.
  

Communication & Stakeholder Support

• Assist in communicating plan changes, policy updates, and other important information to participants, employers, unions, staff, and professional advisors.
  
• Coordinate the timely preparation and distribution of participant notices and communications.
  

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent relevant professional experience required.
  
• Advanced degree and/or professional certifications such as CEBS preferred.
  
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in multiemployer pension benefit and fund administration.
  
• Minimum of 3 years of senior management experience.
  
• Strong leadership, project management, interpersonal, and communication skills.
  
• Excellent judgment, decision-making ability, and professional integrity.
  
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  
• Highly organized team player with the ability to motivate and lead others effectively.
  

Compensation & Benefits:

• Salary range: $175,000 – $200,000, commensurate with experience.
  
• Comprehensive benefits package including Health coverage, retirement benefits, paid time off and additional employee benefits.