Who We Are
Gather‘s mission is to offer innovative programs that build food security in welcoming and
dignified ways. Founded in 1816, Gather is one of the oldest social service agencies in the country. For over two centuries, Gather has been a regional leader in addressing food insecurity. In addition to the Pantry Market in Portsmouth, NH, Gather addresses the immediate hunger need by distributing food to other Seacoast communities through our Mobile Markets, Meals 4 Kids program, and our Fresh Food Bus. Food that would otherwise be wasted is turned into delicious, to-go meals through our Cooking 4 Community program in the kitchens at Gather’s headquarters and at UNH. Gather Café serves food insecure students and the larger community at Great Bay Community College.
In an effort to address the underlying issues that cause food insecurity, Gather offers cooking, gardening, and nutrition education programs to those wanting to learn how to eat healthy food on a budget. Our social service partners join us in our space to offer wrap-around supports, helping our members address needs beyond food. Finally, Gather’s Fresh Start Culinary Workforce Training Program provides a pathway to employment for those experiencing barriers.
What We Seek
Gather is seeking a highly experienced Director of Operations to oversee the day-to-day operations and physical infrastructure of our 18,000-square-foot Community Food Center. This role ensures the seamless, safe, and efficient movement of food from acquisition through storage and distribution while maintaining a high-functioning facility and logistics network.
Reporting to the Executive Director, the Director of Operations oversees warehouse operations, logistics, facility and fleet management, and the teams delivering Gather’s core food access programs. This hands-on leadership role requires deep expertise in operations, supply chain management, and facilities oversight within a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.
The Director of Operations is a member of Gather’s Executive Leadership Team and contributes to organizational strategy, cross-functional alignment, and long-term planning.
Classification: This is an exempt position, with the expectation of working 40 hours per
week.
Key Responsibilities
Operations & Program Logistics
· Lead and oversee all food acquisition, storage, inventory management, and distribution systems.
· Ensure efficient movement of food through warehouse, pantry, culinary, and mobile market channels. Analyze current workflows and identify efficiencies across warehouse, pantry, and program areas.
· Develop and improve inventory tracking, forecasting, and loss prevention systems.
Facilities Management
· Direct facility maintenance, including HVAC, refrigeration, electrical, plumbing, fire safety, security, and preventative maintenance. Manage vendor relationships, contracts, and service providers. Coordinate vendor appointments and emergency facility response, including after-hours issues.
· Oversee facility security systems, including cameras and access controls.
· Serve as primary liaison with the landlord and City of Portsmouth for facility-related matters, permits, inspections, and compliance.
· Assist with capital improvement planning and equipment lifecycle management.
Fleet & Logistics Management
· Oversee management, maintenance, and usage of Gather’s vehicle fleet, ensuring vehicles are safe and serviced on schedule.
· Ensure compliance with DOT, insurance, and regulatory requirements, including scheduling inspections and registrations for all vehicles.
· Manage the transition from manual mileage tracking to a centralized, electronic fleet management system.
Team Leadership & Supervision
· Supervise the Associate Director of Food Distribution and Warehouse Manager.
· Foster collaboration between food acquisition, food distribution, and culinary teams.
· Build a culture of accountability, trust, and problem-solving, ensuring teams are empowered to address operational challenges.
· Establish clear performance expectations, provide coaching, and conduct regular check-ins and evaluations.
Systems, Compliance & Risk Management
· Lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of a comprehensive HACCP plan across all food handling, storage, production, and distribution operations. Identify and manage critical control points, ensure effective monitoring and corrective actions, train staff on adherence to protocols, and maintain audit-ready documentation for inspections and regulatory compliance.
· Ensure compliance with Feeding America, NHFB, OSHA, health department, and other regulatory standards.
· Develop and implement SOPs across all operational areas.
· Lead the expansion and oversight of operational KPIs to drive data-informed decision-making and continuous improvement.
· Oversee emergency preparedness, business continuity, and risk mitigation.
· Maintain accurate records for audits, reporting, and compliance.
Qualifications & Experience
Required
· 10+ years of experience in operations, warehouse management, logistics, or supply chain management.
· Experience with:
o Inventory systems, dry and cold storage, and distribution logistics.
o Large-scale facilities (10,000+ sq. ft. preferred).
o Management of vendors, facility maintenance, and fleet operations.
· Proven leadership experience managing and developing teams.
· Strong communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
· Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, hands-on environment.
· Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, Facilities Management, Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
· Commitment to Gather’s mission and values of dignity, respect, and community.
Preferred
· Experience in food systems, food banking, or nonprofit operations.
· Knowledge of food safety standards (ServSafe or equivalent).
· Familiarity with OSHA and health department compliance requirements.
Location & Schedule
This role is based out of Gather’s Portsmouth, NH facility. The Director of Operations is expected to be on site 5 days/week.
Compensation
Compensation is commensurate with skills and experience, and includes a comprehensive benefits package with paid holidays, vacation, and sick time, as well as a 401K match and health and dental insurance. The target range is $85,000-$95,000/year.
Application Process
Please send resume and cover letter via email to Anne Hayes at [email protected]. In the subject line, write your name and the position for which you are applying, e.g.: “Jordan Smith –Director of Operations.” We will review all submissions, identify viable candidates, and contact ONLY those individuals selected to continue in the search process. The position will be filled when the desired candidate is found.
Gather is an Equal Opportunity Employer that is committed to creating an inclusive organization. We actively seek a diverse pool of candidates for this position.
Pay: $85,000.00 - $95,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
