Special Assistant (Working Title: Senior Director of Operations)

StateJobsNY$103K — $131K *
Education, Government & Non-Profit
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in business or related field; master's degree preferred.
  • 5+ years of operations management experience, especially in public administration.
  • 2+ years in a senior leadership role within a government agency or large organization.
  • Experience managing departmental budgets and high-volume procurement processes.
  • In-depth knowledge of New York State procurement laws and Article 15-A.

Responsibilities

  • Administer the Division's operations support program.
  • Oversee strategic planning and implementation of work programs alongside the EVP.
  • Manage all funding and contracts for the Division.
  • Assist in budget management and financial forecasting with the Executive Director.
  • Oversee lifecycle of Division contracts and vendor management.
  • Identify operational strengths and weaknesses and implement improvements.
  • Coordinate training activities and onboarding for new staff.

Benefits

  • Opportunity to lead and shape operational strategies in a government setting.
  • Work directly with state agencies and stakeholders, enhancing networking opportunities.
  • Involvement in impactful initiatives supporting MWBEs and compliance with state laws.
Full Job Description
Duties Description The Sr. Director of Operations serves as the head of the Division's administrative services and its financial and operational systems. The selected candidate will be charged with the oversight and administration of the Division's personnel, fiscal, and training units. This role ensures that the Division has the necessary resources, processes, and personnel to effectively certify MWBEs, advocate for their utilization in State contracting, and maintain compliance with Article 15-A of Executive Law.

Duties include but are not limited to:
• Administer DMWBD's entire operations support program.
• In collaboration with the EVP of the Division, oversee the Division's strategic planning, development, and implementation of work programs, priorities, scheduling/coordination of major projects and activities with other divisions, bureaus, and State agencies.
• Manage all Division funding and contracts.
• In collaboration with the Executive Director, work with the Executive Chamber and ESD Finance to manage the Division's annual budget, track expenditures, and forecast the Division's future financial needs.
• Oversee the lifecycle of Division contracts, including third-party vendors providing technical assistance or IT support for the MWBE certification system.
• Serve as the liaison between the DMWBD and ESD's Division of Administration.
• Assist in developing management plans to measure the performance of subordinate areas of operation; identify strengths and weaknesses in existing procedures; assist in the development and implementation of new and improved procedures.
• Coordinate the activities of subordinate staff to ensure that policies, procedures, and standards are applied consistently, and that management and administrative practices of the operational sections are handled in accordance with the policies established by the EVP.
• Direct the operational onboarding of new staff and coordinate with section supervisors to ensure that office resource allocations align with evolving departmental priorities.
• Coordinate and participate in training activities, ensuring that necessary training is identified and available, and coordinate employee nomination and attendance.
• Provide managerial support to section supervisors and provide guidance, as needed.
• Represent the Division in meetings with other agencies, vendors, and stakeholders.

Minimum Qualifications Education Requirements: A bachelor's degree in business administration, public administration, finance, or a related field. A master's degree (MBA or MPA) is highly preferred.

Professional Experience Requirements: A minimum of five (5) years of progressive experience in operations management, public administration, or procurement.
• At least two (2) years in a senior leadership or supervisory capacity within a government agency or a large, complex organization.
• Proven experience managing departmental budgets and overseeing high-volume procurement/requisition processes.

Substitutions:
• A master's degree may substitute for one year of specialized experience.
• A Ph.D. may substitute for two years of specialized experience.

Knowledge Requirements:
• In-depth understanding of New York State procurement laws and Article 15-A.
• Strong familiarity with the Statewide Financial System (SFS) or similar enterprise resource planning (ERP) software.
• Exceptional organizational, analytical, and communication skills.

Additional Comments SALARY RANGE: $103,870 - $131,298

Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.

Name Gabby Serafin



Fax

Email Address [email protected]

Address

Street 625 Broadway

City Albany

State NY

Zip Code 12245

Notes on Applying If interested in this position, please forward a cover letter and resume to the e-mail address below by September 3, 2026. Be sure to indicate the position title and location you are applying for and specify how you meet the minimum qualifications in your cover letter.

INQUIRE
NYS Department of Economic Development
Human Resources Office
625 Broadway
Albany, NY 12245
Fax: (518) 292-5852
E-Mail: [email protected]

About StateJobsNY

StateJobsNY Careers

There has never been a better time to explore the diverse array of job opportunities at StateJobsNY—the premier hub for public sector employment in New York.

Work You’ll Do

Join StateJobsNY to engage in meaningful work that directly impacts the lives of millions. StateJobsNY offers a unique platform where innovation meets public service, providing a broad spectrum of career paths ranging from administrative roles to leadership positions in various state departments. Transform public service with your skills and dedication. At StateJobsNY, every position plays a crucial role in shaping the future of New York’s communities. Lead with professionalism and purpose. StateJobsNY positions you perfectly at the nexus of public needs and innovative solutions. Collaborate with a dedicated team of professionals who are committed to excellence in service and leadership. StateJobsNY fosters a culture of growth and learning, where every employee is encouraged to expand their horizons.

StateJobsNY Employment Advantages

The team is committed to building a supportive environment where careers flourish and talents are honed. StateJobsNY offers competitive benefits, comprehensive diversity training, and opportunities for professional development.

Do Innovative Work

Engage with a team that values creativity and forward-thinking. StateJobsNY is a place where your ideas can lead to substantial improvements in how public services are delivered.

Drive Change in Public Sector

Deliver solutions that make a real difference. With StateJobsNY, your efforts contribute directly to the development and implementation of policies that benefit the public.

Be Part of a Great Team

Join a workforce that is as diverse as the state itself. StateJobsNY is proud of its inclusive culture that embraces diversity and fosters an environment of respect and cooperation.

Future-Proof Your Career

With StateJobsNY, the path to personal and professional growth is clear. Embrace the chance to develop leadership skills and gain valuable experience that will serve you throughout your career.

Explore

Discover how StateJobsNY is leading the way in public sector innovation: - Implementing advanced digital solutions to enhance state services. - Pioneering initiatives that promote sustainable practices across all departments.

The StateJobsNY Difference

With a commitment to excellence and a focus on sustainable growth, StateJobsNY not only meets today’s challenges but also anticipates the needs of tomorrow. Professionals looking to make a tangible impact will find StateJobsNY an ideal place to grow and contribute.

Stay Connected

Join the Team

Search open positions that match your skills and interests. StateJobsNY seeks passionate, curious, and driven individuals ready to make a difference. SEARCH STATEJOBSNY JOBS

Keep Up to Date

Stay informed with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights—all from the dedicated professionals at StateJobsNY.

READ CAREERS BLOG

Job Alert Emails

Customize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at StateJobsNY.
Learn more about StateJobsNY

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at StateJobsNY

More Education, Government & Non-Profit Jobs

Find similar Special Assistant (Working Title: Senior Director of Operations) jobs: