Senior Manager of Business Operations

Third Way is a national think tank and advocacy organization that champions moderate policy and political ideas. Since our founding in 2005, we have served as a critical bulwark against political extremism by advancing values-driven, reform-oriented solutions on the defining issues of our time. Our work is grounded in the mainstream American values of opportunity, freedom, security, and democratic capitalism, and we advocate for the vital center across seven major areas: climate and energy, economy, education, health care, national security, politics, and social policy.

The Senior Manager of Business Operations (SMBO) will bring curiosity, high motivation, and versatility to effectively manage the day to-day activities of Business Operations. This includes overseeing office logistics, enforcing office health & safety protocols, and overseeing contracts for a wide range of intern and external relationships, including consultants, vendors, building services, and grant-funded engagements.

The SMBO serves as the internal engine that manages contracts, facilities, vendors, budgets, and workflows—creating a strong operational foundation for the organization’s impact. Our ideal candidate is ready on Day 1 to lead with confidence, uphold compliance, and own processes. The SMBO must be able to strategically manage change, tactically navigate ambiguity, and consistently uphold Third Way’s standard of operational excellence.

This role isn’t just about designing and running systems—it’s about shaping how people experience them. We’re looking for someone who thrives at the intersection of structure and service. This role reports to the Sr. Director of Business Operations (SDBO) and is expected to operate as a trusted partner—both in day-to-day decision-making and long-term visioning.

The Senior Manager of Business Operations will:

• Strategic Collaboration:

  • Partner with executive leadership and cross-functional teams to align business operations with strategic objectives;

  • Translate organizational priorities into efficient, people-centered systems and processes:

  • Serve as a thought partner and trusted advisor, balancing big-picture strategy with operational detail

  • Own the development and maintenance of the “BizOps Manual” to document institutional knowledge and best practices;

  • Design and launch a learning series that supports staff fluency in core operations processes:

  • Collaborate with SDBO to define and advance the department’s long-term goals;

  • Build strong partnerships across HR, IT, Finance & Grants, Office of the President, Learning & Organizational Development to ensure solutions are integrated, efficient, and user-focused;

  • Maintain consistent communication with internal stakeholders, surfacing insights and supporting cross-departmental awareness;

  • Promote a customer-focused culture rooted in clarity, responsiveness, and operational excellence

  • Source fresh ideas and practices from peer organizations and thought leaders in the field.

• Operations Management, People, & Culture:

  • Oversee the day-to-day flow and function of Third Way’s physical office, including facilities, maintenance, supplies, and emergency preparedness;

  • Manage operation vendor relationships and ensure contracts, deliverables, and service expectations are met;

  • Track and manage office and vendor budgets with accuracy, collaborating with Finance as needed;

  • Maintain oversight of Third Way’s corporate insurance policies;

  • Serve as a coach and mentor within the team, fostering a culture of curiosity, accountability, and continuous learning;

  • Uphold health and safety protocols and proactively recommend improvements based on research and best practice;

  • Oversee the maintenance and restocking of the office pantry and supplies, aligned with budget and staff needs;

  • Create and manage a platform for anonymous staff feedback and help develop actionable responses;

  • Foster a collaborative and inclusive workplace culture where staff feel heard, valued, and supported;

  • Identify opportunities to improve internal workflows, communication systems, and team logistics.

  • Lead office administration and strategy, and ensure the operational readiness, appearance, and presentation of the office;

  • Manage various relationships that relate to office and facility management, acting as the primary contact to various vendors (e.g. building maintenance, furnishings, suppliers, painters, etc.) seeking and vetting new ones as needed/recommended;

  • Promote inclusion, whereby team members feel included