Operations & Compliance Associate

The Operations & Compliance Associate (or Senior Associate, depending on experience) plays a central role in strengthening the systems, processes, and infrastructure that allow We Build Progress (501(c)(3)) and Progressive Caucus Action Fund (501(c)(4)) to operate effectively and responsibly.

Reporting to the Chief Operating and Governance Officer, this role supports the organization’s financial management, human resources, operational systems, governance practices, and compliance obligations across both entities. The position ensures strong day-to-day operations, sound financial administration, and consistent adherence to nonprofit compliance and governance standards.

This role may be filled at the Associate or Senior Associate level based on the selected candidate’s experience, scope of responsibilities, and organizational needs. The ideal candidate brings strong finance and HR/payroll experience, excellent organizational and communication skills, and the ability to strengthen systems in a growing, fast‑paced environment. Candidates hired at the Senior Associate level will bring deeper experience and may take on greater ownership of systems, processes, and cross‑organizational projects.

This role is highly collaborative and works across teams to ensure staff, leadership, and partners are supported by reliable, transparent, and well‑managed operational systems. The Operations & Compliance Associate demonstrates strong judgment, attention to detail, and a commitment to continuous improvement to help the organization sustainably scale its impact.

In close collaboration with senior leadership and staff across the organization, responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Support day‑to‑day financial administration, including accounts payable, vendor management, expense reimbursements, and weekly check runs (including retrieving physical checks from the office and making deposits at a nearby bank branch).
• Maintain the finance and operations calendar (including payroll, reimbursements, filings, and audit deadlines) and ensure timely coordination with the COGO and external accountant.
• Assist with month‑end and year‑end close activities, reconciliations, and audit preparation, maintaining organized records and coding accuracy.
• Manage vendor relationships and ensure contracts, renewals, and payment documentation are complete and current.
• Help uphold strong internal controls and contribute to process improvements that strengthen financial integrity.
• Partner with the COGO to implement new operational tools and workflows that improve efficiency and data accuracy.
• Support general office and administrative systems, including supplies, mail, and equipment, ensuring a functional and well‑maintained work environment.

• Manage onboarding and offboarding logistics for staff and contractors, ensuring consistent documentation and coordination with payroll/benefits vendors.
• Administer recurring HR and payroll processes (timekeeping, benefits changes, payroll reporting), escalating exceptions or issues to the COGO.
• Maintain employee records and assist in updating the employee handbook and operational policies.
• Support recruitment processes, including posting roles, coordinating interviews, and preparing offer and onboarding packets.
• Assist the COGO in annual HR cycle activities, including policy refreshes, salary benchmarking, and performance review coordination.

• Track and maintain internal compliance systems for C3/C4 separation, political/non‑political timekeeping, cost allocation, and documentation.
• Coordinate with the COGO, counsel, and Development team to ensure charitable registrations, filings, and certifications are accurate and timely.
• Contribute to documenting and improving compliance procedures and learn to apply relevant standards over time.
• Support staff education and reminders around compliance and reporting deadlines.
• Assist in implementing and testing new compliance tools or procedures under the COGO’s direction.

• Manage logistics for board and committee meetings, including scheduling, preparing agendas, sending…