SY 26/27 Managing Director of Operations

KIPP•Kansas City, MO

12h•Onsite

About The Position

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.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in business administration, education leadership, or a related field (Master’s degree or equivalent relevant experience preferred)
Minimum 3-4 years of experience in school operations leadership, with a proven track record of success
7+ years of professional experience, with at least 3 years in a senior management role (preferably in education, non-profit, or a complex operational environment).
Experience working in a multi-school setting (Pre-K-12 preferred)
Commitment: Upholds KIPP Kansas City’s mission and values, including a deep belief in the potential of all students.
Strategic Thinker: Manage both today’s priorities and long-term organizational goals.
Change Management: Excel at anticipating challenges and proactively addressing them to ensure smooth transitions.
Equity Lens: Ensure all operational decisions prioritize people and promote inclusive practices.
Culture Champion: Foster an environment of care, transparency, and collaboration across teams.
Excellent Communicator: Natural relationship builder and comfortable working and effectively communicating across teams and functions to drive impact.
Organization: Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Management: Strong background in managing complex projects and leading cross-functional teams. Are detail-oriented, fastidious thinkers who love building systems that work.
Mindset: Are detail-oriented, fastidious thinkers who love building systems that work.

Nice To Haves

Certified School Business Official (SBO) or Facility Management Professional (FMP) certifications are often desired.

Responsibilities

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.