Operator extension in Directory: "No valid extension"

I have a system with tb 2.4 and FreePBX 2.3.1.5

Incoming calls go to an IVR, and callers can then press “#” to enter the directory.

I have the operator extension in “General Settings” specified as a valid extension, but when a caller presses “0” to reach an operator while in the directory, they hear (after a few seconds digit timeout) “No directory entries match your search.”

I’ve tried setting the operator extension as an extension or as a ring group, and it makes no difference. I’ve also reloaded Asterisk, but no go.

Does anyone have any idea what would cause that?

Thanks in advance!

See http://www.freepbx.org/forum/cannot-enable-operator-0-in-directory

Thanks much!