Circularity Operations Manager

SUMMARY:

The Circularity Operations Manager leads the strategic development and operational execution of Goodwill’s circular economy initiatives. This role is responsible for advancing textile recovery, fiber sorting, waste diversion, and value recovery from post-consumer materials. The manager will pilot innovative business models, scale best practices across the Goodwill network, and build partnerships with brands, industry stakeholders, and the Northeast HUB. A key deliverable is a comprehensive playbook of best practices for circular textile processing, funded by Goodwill Industries International.

COMPETENCIES

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Expertise in sustainability, circular economy, and textile recycling
• Strong project management and cross-functional collaboration
• Proficiency in data analysis tools (Power BI), 
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement
• Ability to lead pilots and scale initiatives across multiple sites
• Commitment to environmental compliance and continuous improvement

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Responsibility 1: Circularity Strategy, Innovation, Operations & Playbook Development (45%)

• Develop and execute a circularity roadmap aligned with Goodwill’s mission and sustainability goals.
• Lead the creation and distribution of a comprehensive playbook of best practices for circular textile processing.
• Translate findings from fiber sorting studies and waste audits into scalable business models.
• Design and implement textile sorting systems using AI and NIR technology.
• Conduct time studies and process mapping to improve labor and cost efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with environmental and safety standards.

Responsibility 2: Recycling, Waste Diversion, and Environmental Compliance (25%)

• Create and manage programs to reduce waste and increase recycling.
• Conduct waste audits and assessments to identify areas for improvement.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations related to waste handling and disposal.
• Collaborate with waste haulers, recycling facilities, and regulatory agencies.
• Maintain and update policies to reflect best practices and regulatory changes.

Responsibility 3: Business Development & Stakeholder Engagement (15%)

• Build and manage partnerships with brands for reverse logistics and take-back pilots.
• Serve as liaison between Goodwill, brand partners, and the Northeast HUB.
• Represent Goodwill in industry forums and working groups.
• Coordinate communications and process development across stakeholders.

Responsibility 4: Data & Impact Measurement (10%)

• Collect and analyze operational and waste data using AI-enabled tools and Power BI.
• Establish and track KPIs such as pounds processed, contamination rates, and revenue.
• Prepare and present findings and business plans to stakeholders.

Responsibility 5: Department Business Duties (5%)

• Perform additional duties as directed by the SVP Operations & Services.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: 

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Operations Management, Environmental Science, Industrial Engineering, Business, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in sustainability, circular economy, operations, or business development—preferably in textiles, recycling, or manufacturing.
• Experience with AI/NIR technology, Power BI, and process optimization.
• Preferred: Experience with reverse logistics, EPR schemes, nonprofit/social enterprise environments, and developing operational playbooks.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: 

ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS:

TRAVEL: Occasional regional travel required for pilot coordination and stakeholder engagement. May include overnight travel.

ADDITIONAL CERTIFICATIONS:

• Preferred: Certifications in sustainability, environmental compliance, or textile recycling.
• Experience with Monday.com, Power BI, and AI/NIR sorting technology.

Goodwill of the Finger Lakes is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.