Business Operations Manager

Business Operations Manager (Architecture, Engineering, Construction) Description The Business Operations Manager will play a critical role in overseeing the contractual, legal, financial, and administrative functions of the firm. This position is responsible for safeguarding the firm's interests through proactive contract management, insurance oversight, and the oversight of the employee benefit programs. We are seeking a detail-oriented and strategic candidate with a strong experience in accounting to join our team. This role will be responsible for reviewing contracts, overseeing financial compliance, and supporting key business operations. The ideal candidate brings a mix of financial acumen and business strategy, ensuring all operations align with the company's financial goals and legal standards. Qualifications (Must Have): Minimum of 15+ years of experience in business operations, legal affairs, or administrative management Proven experience working in or with professional services firms; AEC or design industry experience highly preferred Comfortable with onboarding new clients and working with corporate insurance and attorneys. Aware of professional liabilities. Confident in communicating with brokers. Knowledge of business fundamentals and understanding core business functions Leadership and motivational ability Market dynamics awareness Possesses financial knowledge; a finance background or accounting experience is not required, but financial awareness is essential. Key Responsibilities: Contract Management Review, and negotiate client agreements, consultant contracts, onboarding new client documents, and review NDA's Manage contract lifecycle, ensuring timely execution and compliance with deliverables and terms Collaborate with legal counsel on complex or high-risk agreements Financial Oversight: Assist CFO in budgeting, forecasting, and cost tracking for the partnership. Analyze financial implications of business deals. Provide financial insight to support strategic decisions and negotiations Support CFO with audits, financial reporting, and due diligence processes. Risk & Insurance Oversight Evaluate, procure, negotiate, and manage all business insurance policies, including general liability, E&O, property, workers' compensation, and project-specific coverages Ensure compliance with client insurance requirements and maintain current certificates of insurance Manage incident documentation and claims processes in coordination with carriers and brokers Employee Benefits & Compensation Administration Oversee retirement plan administration, including 401(k) and profit-sharing programs, in collaboration with third-party administrators and fiduciary advisors Oversee employee benefits programs including health, dental, vision, and ancillary coverages Ensure compliance with relevant employment and benefits regulations (ERISA, ACA, etc.) Governance & Compliance Maintain corporate records, licenses, and registrations across jurisdictions Monitor evolving regulatory requirements and ensure internal policies are up-to-date Support internal audits, compliance reviews, and firm-wide policy development Additional Skills & Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Legal Studies, or related discipline Strong understanding of contract law, risk management, and employee benefits compliance Excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong attention to detail Ability to manage sensitive information with discretion and sound judgment