Senior Operations Manager, Central Ops at Handshake

Role Overview

The Senior Operations Manager, Central Ops at Handshake is a critical leadership role responsible for overseeing and scaling central operational functions, including Trust & Safety, Pay Operations, and Contractor Management. This position involves managing a team of operators and frontline managers, driving operational excellence, and spearheading high-impact initiatives aimed at improving performance against clearly defined metrics and targets. The ideal candidate will be data-driven, comfortable with ambiguity, and adept at cross-functional collaboration.

A Day in the Life

* **Strategic Planning:** Developing and implementing operational strategies to support Handshake's business goals. * **Team Leadership:** Managing and mentoring a team of operations professionals, fostering a culture of high performance and continuous improvement. * **Cross-functional Collaboration:** Working closely with Legal, Finance, Product, Engineering, and Analytics teams to align operational processes with business needs. * **Data Analysis:** Analyzing operational data to identify trends, opportunities, and areas for improvement. * **Process Improvement:** Designing and implementing process improvements to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. * **Performance Monitoring:** Monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs) and taking corrective action as needed. * **Risk Management:** Identifying and mitigating operational risks. * **Stakeholder Communication:** Communicating operational performance and key initiatives to senior management and stakeholders. * **Project Management:** Leading and managing operational projects to successful completion.

Why San Francisco?

San Francisco is a hub for innovation and technology, making it an ideal location for Handshake to thrive. The city offers a vibrant ecosystem of talent, resources, and opportunities, allowing Handshake to attract top-tier professionals and collaborate with leading companies and institutions.

Career Path

This Senior Operations Manager role offers a clear path for career advancement within Handshake. Successful candidates can progress to roles such as Director of Operations, VP of Operations, or other leadership positions within the company.

Salary & Benefits

Handshake offers a competitive salary and benefits package to attract and retain top talent. This includes: * Competitive salary commensurate with experience. * Equity in a fast-growing company. * 401(k) match. * Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance. * Paid time off and holidays. * Professional development opportunities.

Handshake's Mission

Handshake is revolutionizing the way students and young professionals connect with employers. Our mission is to democratize opportunity and empower the next generation of talent to build meaningful careers.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply online through the Handshake careers website. Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience.

FAQ

1. **What is Handshake?** Handshake is the career network for the AI economy. 20 million knowledge workers, 1,600 educational institutions, 1 million employers (including 100% of the Fortune 50), and every foundational AI lab trust Handshake to power career discovery, hiring, and upskilling, from freelance AI training gigs to first internships to full-time careers and beyond. 2. **What are the key responsibilities of the Senior Operations Manager?** The Senior Operations Manager is responsible for owning and scaling multiple central operations functions, including Trust & Safety, Pay Operations, and Contractor Management. This role also involves managing a team, driving operational excellence, and leading high-impact initiatives. 3. **What qualifications are required for this role?** Candidates should have strong leadership skills, advanced SQL skills, data analysis capabilities, and experience driving cross-functional initiatives. 4. **What are the benefits of working at Handshake?** Handshake offers a comprehensive benefits package, including equity, 401(k) match, health insurance, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. 5. **What is the career path for this role?** Successful candidates can progress to roles such as Director of Operations, VP of Operations, or other leadership positions within the company. 6. **What is the company culture like at Handshake?** Handshake fosters a culture of innovation, collaboration, and empowerment. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. 7. **How does Handshake support employee growth and development?** Handshake provides a $2,000 learning stipend for professional growth, ongoing development opportunities, and mentorship programs. 8. **What is the work-life balance like at Handshake?** Handshake offers flexible PTO, 15 holidays + 2 flex days, and other benefits to support work-life balance. 9. **Does Handshake offer remote work options?** Handshake supports remote work with an internet stipend and other resources. 10. **How does Handshake contribute to the community?** Handshake is committed to democratizing opportunity and empowering the next generation of talent to build meaningful careers.

About Handshake

Handshake is the career network for the AI economy. 20 million knowledge workers, 1,600 educational institutions, 1 million employers (including 100% of the Fortune 50), and every foundational AI lab trust Handshake to power career discovery, hiring, and upskilling, from freelance AI training gigs to first internships to full-time careers and beyond. This unique value is leading to unparalleled growth; in 2025, we tripled our ARR at scale.
Why join Handshake now: Shape how every career evolves in the AI economy, at global scale, with impact your friends, family and peers can see and feel Work hand-in-hand with world-class AI labs, Fortune 500 partners and the world’s top educational institutions Join a team with leadership from Scale AI, Meta, xAI, Notion, Coinbase, and Palantir, among others Build a massive, fast-growing business with billions in revenue