Ignite Community Schools Executive Director

Position SummaryThe Executive Director of Schools serves as the Superintendent’s strategic partner and second-in-command, leading the systems, structures, and operational functions that drive organizational excellence across . This role ensures the district’s operational, personnel, and compliance functions are aligned to support high-performing campuses, strong leadership execution, and exceptional scholar outcomes.The Executive Director is responsible for building and sustaining systems that create clarity, accountability, and operational excellence across the organization while supporting campus and departmental leaders through coaching, strategic planning, and problem-solving.Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership & Organizational Effectiveness- Serve as primary designee for the Superintendent in operational and leadership matters - Partner with the Superintendent to execute district strategic priorities and organizational initiatives - Build, refine, and sustain systems that improve organizational efficiency, accountability, and scalability - Lead cross-functional planning and execution of district-wide operational priorities - Monitor organizational performance metrics and drive continuous improvement efforts Personnel Leadership & Talent Management- Oversee personnel systems, staffing structures, and workforce planning across the district - Manage employee relations, grievances, investigations, and personnel processes with professionalism and consistency - Coach and support campus and departmental leaders in leadership execution and personnel management - Assist in recruitment, selection, onboarding, and retention of high-quality leaders and staff - Ensure talent systems align to performance expectations and organizational culture Operations & Infrastructure- Oversee district operational systems, databases, workflows, and internal processes - Ensure operational readiness and execution across all campuses and departments - Monitor facilities, safety systems, and campus operational effectiveness - Coordinate operational planning for new campus launches, expansions, and strategic initiatives Financial & Enrollment Management- Support budget development, financial planning, and operational forecasting - Monitor ADA, enrollment, staffing allocations, and operational efficiency indicators - Oversee purchasing workflows and financial process compliance - Support strategic decision-making regarding financial sustainability and resource deployment Compliance & Risk Management- Ensure compliance with federal, state, local, and charter requirements - Oversee regulatory reporting, audits, documentation, and operational compliance systems - Monitor adherence to district policies, procedures, and accountability expectations - Address escalated stakeholder concerns and complex operational issues in alignment with policy and legal requirements Communication & Stakeholder Engagement- Facilitate weekly operational updates and leadership communication systems - Serve as liaison between Superintendent, campus leadership, and central office departments - Support strategic communication and issue resolution across stakeholder groups - Lead and support crisis response and organizational problem-solving as needed Qualifications- Master’s Degree required; Doctorate preferred - Valid administrator certification preferred - Minimum 7–10 years of progressive leadership experience in education administration - Demonstrated success in operational leadership, personnel management, compliance, and organizational systems development - Strong knowledge of budgeting, enrollment/ADA, HR systems, and regulatory compliance -Ability to travel to all Ignite Community Schools locations 30-40% of the timeLeadership Attributes- Systems-oriented and highly organized - Strong executor with strategic planning capability - High emotional intelligence and sound judgment - Exceptional communicator and relationship builder - Solutions-driven and adaptable in fast-paced environments - Committed to servant leadership and organizational excellence