Director of Operations

PURPOSE OF POSITION

The Director of Operations serves as a key organizational leader responsible for translating ISANA's strategic priorities into effective, scalable, and consistently executed operational systems across six schools. Reporting to the Chief Operations Officer, the Director leads network-wide operational functions, develops and monitors systems and standards, builds the capacity of operational teams, and ensures schools receive high-quality, responsive operational support.

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RESPONSIBILITIES / DUTIES

Strategic & Operational Leadership

• Provide leadership and oversight for operational systems and practices across all school sites and central office, ensuring consistency, efficiency, and a high level of service.

• Partner with school leaders and school-based operations staff to identify operational needs, resolve challenges, and implement sustainable solutions.

• Establish and monitor network-wide operational standards, procedures, calendars, and performance expectations.

• Conduct regular school-site operational reviews and ensure timely follow-through on identified priorities.

• Ensure alignment of school operations with organizational goals and compliance requirements.

• Establish key performance indicators, service standards, and accountability systems to measure the effectiveness of network and school-site operations.

Team Management

• Supervise, support, and evaluate the performance of the Business Operations Manager, Operations Coordinator, and Facilities Coordinator.
• Provide strategic direction, professional development, and performance management for direct reports.
• Build cross-functional collaboration and communication to support effective execution of operational initiatives.

Facilities Oversight

• Oversee maintenance, repairs, capital improvement projects, and vendor relationships to ensure facilities are safe and operational.
• Support the Facilities Coordinator in implementing preventive maintenance schedules and compliance with safety regulations.

School Nutrition Oversight

• Manage meal program compliance with federal (NSLP) and state guidelines.
• Supervise vendor performance and ensure the quality, efficiency, and regulatory alignment of nutrition services.

Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure adherence to local, state, and federal regulations across operational functions.
• Oversee compliance reporting and documentation, including for audits, oversight reviews, and government submissions.

Data Systems Management

• Oversee the use and administration of student information systems (SIS), enrollment platforms, and operational reporting tools.
• Work closely with academic and technology teams to maintain data integrity and usability.
• Develop and monitor operational dashboards, metrics, and reporting systems to identify trends, evaluate performance, and drive continuous improvement.
• Use operational data to identify areas of risk, inefficiency, and opportunity and develop action plans to improve performance.

Student Recruitment & Enrollment

• Design and implement strategies to meet enrollment targets and support equitable access across schools.
• Monitor applications, waitlists, and enrollment processes to ensure transparency and compliance.

Procurement and Vendor Management

• Lead vendor selection, contract negotiation, implementation, performance monitoring, and renewal processes for major operational services.
• Ensure purchasing aligns with organizational policies and provides cost-effective, high-quality services and products.

Budget & Resource Management

• Develop, monitor, and manage budgets for assigned operational areas in partnership with the COO and fiscal team.
• Monitor expenditures, contracts, and vendor performance to ensure effective stewardship of organizational resources.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings, operational efficiencies, and strategic resource allocation.

MINIMUM REQUIRED SKILLS / EDUCATION / TRAINING & EXPERIENCE

Skills:

• Strong leadership, project management, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with an ability to manage multiple stakeholders.
• High level of organization, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and operational platforms (e.g., SIS, procurement tools, project management systems). trt

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred in Business Administration, Public Administration, Education, or related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in school, nonprofit, public-sector, or multi-site operations, including at least 3 years of management or leadership experience.
• Experience managing multiple operational functions and/or supporting multiple school sites or locations strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with LAUSD oversight, state and federal compliance requirements, and education-related regulations strongly desired.

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PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ELEMENTS

• Prolonged periods of sitting and working on a computer.
• Regular travel between school sites within the charter network.
• Occasional lifting of items up to 25 pounds.
• Availability for occasional evening or weekend work to meet operational needs or address facility-related issues.
• Work is performed in both office and school environments, including campus visits and walkthroughs.