Des Moines Public Schools is looking for and accepting applications from dynamic leaders searching for an executive leadership in School Operations for our Chief Operations Officer position.  

The salary range shared below represents the minimum to the mid-point of the salary range.  Candidates offered employment will be compensated based on skills, work experience, and education.  This position will also qualify for a 14% Tax Sheltered Annuity (TSA) in addition to the base salary.

Des Moines Public Schools offers single and family health benefits at no cost to our employees and up to $6,000 towards relocation costs.

TITLE: ADMN Chief Opereations Officer

DEPARTMENT: Operations

REPORTS TO: Superintendent

RECEIVES GUIDANCE FROM: Associate Superintendent

EVALUATES: Operations Administration

POSITION INVENTORY:

POSITION TYPE: ADMN

BARGAINING GROUP: Non-Bargained

BASIC FUNCTION: Serve as a Chief Officer to the Superintendent including, but not limited to, informing staff as to the overall strategic operational status of the school system; providing advice as to the prudent use of resources of the District; managing the business operations of the District in a legal, ethical, efficient, and effective manner; recommending changes in policy and practice in consideration of legal requirements; and assisting in the preparation of agendas for School Board meetings. Supervise the routine functions of the Operations division in compliance with law, policy, and regulations, while enhancing operational assets of the organization and promoting employee morale – to include Transportation, Food & Nutrition, District & School Security, and Purchasing & Warehouse Services.  The Chief will serve on the Superintendent’s executive cabinet and work closely with the other chiefs to collaborate around the coordination of district operations.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

The tasks/competencies listed below represent most of the time spent working in this position. The supervisor may assign additional tasks within the scope of this classification as necessary.

1. Develop plans and identify District goals for each department in the
2. Provide leadership and oversight to key operational departments including Transportation, Food & Nutrition, District & School Security, and Purchasing & Warehouse Services.
3. Lead cross-functional teams to implement forward-thinking initiatives that enhance operational efficiency and support student outcomes.
4. Serve as a key advisor to the Superintendent and School Board, providing data-driven insights to guide decision-making on resource allocation and infrastructure investments.

1. In collaboration with the Superintendent’s designee, serve as a leader of the District’s Strategic Plan’s Strategic Objective that leads and supports the Reimagining Education Initiative.
2. Work directly with the Superintendent on the oversight of major operating systems and services to leverage the effectiveness of resources, programs, and services throughout the
3. Analyze operational performance metrics and results, comparing them to established objectives/goals. Identify and implement corrective actions to address areas of underperformance, ensuring continuous improvement.
4. Oversee annual planning and ongoing monitoring to ensure optimal level of resources (financial, technical, human) to deliver required services that align with budget, strategic plan objectives, and best practices.
5. Direct all functions and services consistent with District priorities and budgeted
6. Provide advice to the Superintendent as to the operational status of the school system and the wise use of operational resources.
7. Foster partnerships with District leadership, the School Board, Education Foundations, and community leaders to support and advance strategic goals.
8. Effectively communicate operational objectives, initiatives, and results to internal and external stakeholders.
9. Assist the Superintendent with coordinating and managing the function of operational services for the school district including technology networks, facilities & plant operations, financial wellness, and community & media relations.
10. Assist in the preparation of the school board meeting agenda, preparing department-related action items of routine and priority nature, as well as timely reports.
11. Supervise the evaluation process of all assigned personnel, provide leadership, coaching, mentorship, and guidance in the development of future leaders.
12. Coordinate and manage the development and implementation of policies and
13. Prepare reports and coordinate record keeping in accordance with the requirements of the school system, state, national, and agency programs required of the school system.
14. Serve as advisor to supervisory personnel in the resolution of personnel problems in their area of
15. Conduct employment interviews for personnel when required, including stay interviews, exit interviews for retiring personnel, and other conferences related to the personnel function.

ADDITIONAL ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (for every DMPS position):

1. Attend work on a prompt and regular
2. Maintain
3. Maintain satisfactory and harmonious working relationships with the public, students, and other
4. Assist with other duties as may be

HIRING SPECIFICATIONS:

Required Education and Experience:

1. Master’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education in Operations Management, Education, Business Administration or closely related field.
2. At least five years of administrative experience managing multiple functions within a large organization.

Desired Education and Experience:

1. Specialist or Doctorate degree

Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:

1. Ability to use high level interpersonal skills to maintain effective working relationships.
2. Possess skills related to problem solving, planning, supervision, organizing, and scheduling.
3. Ability to communicate orally and in writing.
4. Knowledge and use of time management and organizational systems.
5. Ability to use logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

*This position requires travel between sites*

Salary : $156,416 - $211,120