Tonya Bates

Community-focused facilities and operations leader with 10+ years of experience overseeing public-facing facilities, rentals, events, and staff in municipal and nonprofit settings. Proven expertise in facility scheduling, room reservations, staff supervision, event logistics, and customer service. Known for clear communication, sound judgment, and ensuring operations align with organizational policies and community values.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Director of Operations

Minneapolis Jewish Federation — Minneapolis, MN

2019–Present

• Lead daily facility operations including rentals, events, celebrations, and community programs, ensuring professional execution and facility readiness
• Coordinate room scheduling, space utilization, and event logistics to support multiple concurrent activities
• Supervise full- and part-time staff including hiring, onboarding, training, scheduling, and performance management
• Serve as primary point of contact for renters and facility users; resolve issues and complaints in alignment with policies and rental agreements
• Ensure facility rentals comply with policies, permits, and insurance requirements
• Conduct pre- and post-event inspections; coordinate vendors and contractors to support successful events
• Develop, implement, and maintain operational procedures, emergency plans, and facility usage metrics; prepare reports for leadership
• Lead marketing and communication efforts related to facility use, including internal messaging, external communications, signage, and digital content
• Collaborate cross-departmentally on events, budget planning, operational improvements, and community engagement initiatives

Minneapolis JCC — Minneapolis, MN

2012–2019

• Directed front-line customer service and daily building operations for a high-traffic community facility with extensive programming, rentals, and special events
• Managed 20+ full- and part-time staff, including recruitment, training, scheduling, supervision, and performance evaluation
• Coordinated daily room reservations, event setups, and space utilization to maximize efficiency and availability
• Addressed member, renter, and guest concerns using policy-based, professional resolution
• Supported facility marketing, signage, and communications to enhance awareness of programs and services

YWCA of Minneapolis — Minneapolis, MN

2010–2012

• Oversaw facility operations and program delivery for youth and community programs, including room scheduling and event coordination
• Supervised staff and volunteers, ensuring adherence to policies, schedules, and safety standards
• Tracked budgets, participation, and operational metrics to support planning and reporting

Cities of Chanhassen & Crystal — Minnesota

2014–Present

• Support municipal facility operations including event setup, room turnover, inspections, and customer service for community programs and rentals
• Utilize registration and scheduling software to coordinate facility usage and program delivery
• Respond to on-site operational needs to ensure facilities are clean, safe, and event-ready
• Collaborate with other City departments to support efficient daily operations

BFA - St. Cloud State University