The Archdiocese of Chicago, the third largest in the United States, serves more than 2.2 million Catholics in 216 parishes in Cook County and Lake County, a geographic area of 1,411 square miles. The Archdiocese, pastored by Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, has more than 13,000 employees in its systems and ministries, including Catholic Charities, the region's largest nonprofit social service agency. The Archdiocese also has one of the country's largest seminaries. The Archdiocese's 150+ elementary and secondary schools comprise one of the largest U.S. private school systems. Its schools have received 96 U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon Awards.

The Director of School Operations will directly support approximately 30 - 60 elementary school principals and their schools. This is an opportunity for a servant leader who enjoys working in diverse settings, on various challenges, and getting things done. The Director of School Operations provides leadership, oversight, and support of the school's mission, quality, and vitality in their assigned portfolio. The Director of School Operations represents the Office of Catholic Schools for the schools in their portfolio, building relationships with parish and school leaders. The Director of School Operations supports their assigned schools in matters in conjunction with HR, contract work with pastors/principals, and specific high-level, family, and DCFS concerns.

The Director of School Operations is a member of the School Support Team, which meets weekly to collaborate. We seek a candidate who values collaboration to effectively support our school communities.

Responsibilities  

• Provides support to ensure the school is operating in compliance with Archdiocesan and Office of Catholic School policies, procedures, and protocols applicable to Catholic schools. 

• Facilitates the process for parent and/or employee concerns to be heard and resolved. 

• Ensure principals are apprised of new Archdiocesan and/or Office of Catholic Schools policies, guidelines, or requirements applicable to Catholic schools. 

• Supports the Director of Leadership Formation in recruiting and hiring principals for assigned schools. 

• Maintains positive relationships and regular channels of communication with school pastors, principals, and other key stakeholders within assigned schools. 

• Maintains regular communication with local Vicar(s) associated with the DSO’s portfolio.  

• Responds to local personnel, family, or other school-related issues that escalate above the local school/parish leadership. Escalates issues, as warranted, to the Deputy of School Support.  

Requirements

• Master’s degree in education and/or Administration and Supervision is required.  

• At least five years of administration experience in a school or university setting.  

• Excellent written and oral communication skills; managing multiple responsibilities and forming and maintaining positive stakeholder relationships. 

• Proven ability to use data to guide decisions. 

• Demonstrated leadership qualities and strong interpersonal skills, including giving and receiving constructive feedback. 

• A state license as a principal and/or superintendent is preferred.  

• Valid Illinois driver’s license and reliable transportation.

The Archdiocese of Chicago offers a comprehensive total rewards package to include competitive compensation and benefit programs. Information about our benefit programs is available here. 

This position has an annualized salary range of - $85,207.64 - $108,639.74. An employee’s pay within the salary range will be based on many factors including but not limited to relevant education, qualifications, experience, skills, geographic location, and organizational needs.