Managing Director of Operations

🇺🇸In-Person - Kansas City, MO$140K–$210K/yri1d ago

K-12 Operations Operations Management School Operations Facilities Management Enrollment Management Budget Management

Role Snapshot

The Managing Director of Operations leads non-instructional operations at KIPP Kansas City, developing and executing strategic vision for facilities, technology, student recruitment, compliance, and auxiliary services. This role is central to creating an efficient, equitable learning environment that supports educational justice and student achievement.

Key Responsibilities: Lead operational strategy execution, manage facilities and safety protocols, oversee student recruitment and enrollment processes, manage budgets and vendor contracts, and supervise teams across custodial, technology, transportation, and food service functions. Partner with leadership on data management, state testing logistics, and ensure compliance with federal and state regulations.

Skills & Tools: Strategic operational planning, budget management, facilities management, staff leadership and coaching, student recruitment strategy, technology systems oversight, compliance and regulatory knowledge, and demonstrated commitment to equity and culturally responsive practices.

Qualifications: Typically requires 5+ years of operations management experience in education or mission-driven organizations, with demonstrated success managing multi-faceted operational teams and budgets. Bachelor's degree required; experience with student information systems and NSLP compliance preferred.

Location: In-Person - Kansas City, MO

Compensation: $140K–$210K/yr (estimated)

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Job Description

Position Overview:

The Managing Director of Operations (MDO) will play a critical leadership role at KIPP Kansas City, ensuring all non-instructional operations are aligned with the organization's mission and goals. The MDO will develop and execute a strategic vision for school operations, covering areas such as facilities, technology, student attendance, student recruitment, compliance, auxiliary services (food and transportation) and more. This role centers on driving operational efficiency while nurturing a culture of care, equity, and excellence for both staff and students. The MDO collaborates with the Chief of Talent and Compliance, Chief Academic Officer, and the Chief Schools Officer to ensure operational success, ultimately contributing to a learning environment that supports educational justice and student achievement.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Leadership & Team Management

Lead the development and execution of KIPP KC’s long-term operational strategy, ensuring alignment with academic and cultural objectives.
Develop a people-centered, values-based culture that supports staff sustainability, retention, and development.
Lead, manage, and coach the school operations team including facilities, front office, custodial, technology, and vendors.
Build scalable and equitable operational systems, policies, and procedures that support high academic achievement.
Work collaboratively with the leadership team to manage budgets, oversee operational priorities, and align resources with strategic goals.
Serve as a thought partner to the leadership team, anticipating challenges, influencing decision-making, and driving forward operational priorities.
Manage the school's food service program (NSLP compliance) and transportation logistics (busing).
Supervise school nursing staff and health records compliance.

Facilities & Safety

Ensure all facilities operate safely and efficiently, adhering to health, safety, and environmental regulations.
Manage janitorial, maintenance, and landscaping teams or vendors to ensure a clean, dignified learning environment.
Oversee school safety protocols, including emergency drills, security personnel, and surveillance systems.
Oversee preventive maintenance and repair plans to optimize building functionality.
Lead long-term facility planning, including renovations or new construction.

Student Recruitment & Enrollment

Develop and implement recruitment strategies to drive the student recruitment and registration process to meet enrollment targets.
Oversee all aspects of the enrollment and transfer processes, ensuring compliance with state regulations.
Collaborate with the family engagement team to ensure a seamless enrollment experience.

Operational Efficiency, Technology, & Student Data Management

Partner with the Data Team to manage accurate and compliant student data.
Oversee operational support for State Testing logistics and all major student assessments.
Oversee the Student Information System (SIS) for accurate attendance, grading, and state reporting.
Ensure technology and equipment needs for both staff and students are met and aligned with academic goals.
Ensure students and staff have reliable hardware and high-speed connectivity.

Transportation & Family Services

Oversee student transportation, including arrival and dismissal procedures, field trips, and athletics.
Manage communication channels between schools and families, ensuring timely and efficient information sharing.

Budget Management & Compliance

Collaborate with the finance team to manage the operational budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility.
Lead the implementation of emergency procedures and ensure all staff are trained on safety protocols.
Ensure the school meets all federal, state, and local financial reporting requirements (e.g., Title I funding, audits).
Oversee vendor contracts, purchasing systems, and inventory management to ensure cost-efficiency.

Culture of Equity & Inclusion

Champion equity and inclusion in all operational practices, ensuring that systems and policies are accessible to all members of the school community.
Implement operational changes with a focus on cultural responsiveness, fostering an environment where students and staff from diverse backgrounds thrive.