For over 30 years, Gersh Autism has empowered students on the autism spectrum to reach their full potential. Serving individuals aged 5-21 across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, our network of K-12 schools provides personalized education tailored to each student’s unique learning style. We offer comprehensive therapeutic services—speech, physical, occupational therapy, and more—along with vocational training for older students. Our dedicated team collaborates with families to ensure academic, social, and emotional growth, preparing students for success beyond the classroom.

At Gersh Autism, we are committed to helping individuals on the autism spectrum lead fulfilling, independent lives.

Gersh Autism is currently seeking an experienced Head of Operations to oversee the operations across the organization! The Head of Operations is a key member of the executive leadership team and is responsible for overseeing most of the day-to-day operational functions of Gersh Autism USA. This critical role ensures the organization delivers exceptional services, maintains regulatory compliance, and meets strategic and financial goals. The Head of Operations provides executive leadership to ABA Centers, School Operations, Data & Analytics, Compliance, IT & Cybersecurity, Contract Management and Facilities Management. The ideal candidate will bring strong operational expertise, a deep understanding of mission-driven services, and a passion for improving outcomes for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Direct Operational oversight over school operations and ABA centers, ensuring consistency, quality, and mission alignment
• Build and implement scalable systems and processes to support operational excellence and efficiency.
• Lead operational planning and performance management for all direct service programs.
• Manage cross-functional initiatives involving IT, data, compliance, school operations and facilities.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations across education, healthcare, and safety domains.
• Develop and monitor internal audits, risk management strategies, and corrective action plans.
• Partner with legal and compliance teams to address audits, investigations, and licensing requirements.

Data & Technology Oversight

• Oversee organizational data strategy, including reporting, dashboards, and analytics that inform decision-making.
• Collaborate with IT leadership to maintain robust cybersecurity protocols, systems integrity, and tech infrastructure.

Facilities & Safety

• Ensure all facilities are safe, secure, and therapeutic environments that meet the needs of students and staff.
• Oversee capital planning, lease negotiations, renovations, and facilities-related compliance.
• Ensure all building are clean and in good working condition

Strategic Implementation

• Work closely with the CEO and executive team to develop and execute strategic initiatives across the organization.
• Translate strategic vision into operational plans and measurable outcomes.
• Identify and drive growth opportunities while ensuring quality and sustainability.

People & Culture

• Lead, mentor, and support a high-performing team of operational leaders.
• Foster a culture of accountability, inclusivity, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Develop succession plans and professional development strategies for operations teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Education, Healthcare Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum 15 years of senior-level or executive leadership experience in operations within healthcare, education, behavioral health, or a mission-driven organization.
• Demonstrated success managing multi-site operations and cross-functional teams on a national setting.
• Strong understanding of regulatory environments in special education.
• Expertise in data-informed operations and technology integration,
• Exceptional interpersonal, strategic planning, and organizational skills.
• Willingness to travel regularly to program locations (30–50%).

Core Competencies

• Operational excellence
• Strategic acumen in visionary and operational results
• Results-driven leadership
• Cross-functional collaboration
• Regulatory and compliance expertise
• Technological and data fluency
• Effective communication and executive presence
• Adaptability and Agile – Knows how to succeed and influence in a changing environment

Location

• New York or Hybrid/Remote with Travel Required

Benefits

Gersh Autism offers a competitive compensation package, including comprehensive health and retirement benefits, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment committed to your personal and professional growth. 

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k matching)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Paid Company Holidays)
• Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• Training & Development