Chief Administrative Officer

Reports To: Canonical Administrator of the Des Moines Regional Catholic Schools

Position Summary:

The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) for the Des Moines Regional Catholic Schools is responsible for overseeing and coordinating the administrative and operational functions of the school system, ensuring alignment with the Catholic Church's mission and values. The CAO works in partnership with the Superintendent of Schools, pastors, and other parish and diocesan staff to support the strategic direction and operational effectiveness of the schools, providing leadership in areas such as finance, human resources, technology, and compliance. The CAO serves as a key executive leader, fostering a collaborative and faith-centered environment that supports the educational and spiritual development of students.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Leadership and Planning
   • Collaborate with the Superintendent and Board of Directors to develop and implement long-term strategic plans that support the mission and goals of the Catholic school system.
   • Drive operational excellence by developing and executing administrative policies and procedures that enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the schools.
   • Serve as a key advisor on all administrative matters, providing insight and recommendations on policy development and strategic initiatives.
2. Operational Oversight
   • Oversee daily administrative operations, including finance, human resources, facilities, technology, and compliance, ensuring alignment with Catholic values and educational standards.
   • Lead the development and management of the annual operating budget, working closely with the finance team to ensure financial sustainability and transparency.
   • Monitor the financial operational performance of individual schools, identifying opportunities for improvement and providing guidance to the appropriate stakeholders.
   • Lead the analysis of region’s administrative processes and services and develop a process for selecting and implementing new vendors and executing more efficient processes.
3. Financial Management
   • Develop and oversee financial policies, procedures, and controls to safeguard the financial integrity of the school system.
   • Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting and analysis for the Board of Directors, Members Board, and other internal stakeholders.
   • Manage relationships with external stakeholders, including auditors, donors, and community partners, to support financial stability and growth.
4. Human Resources and Talent Management
   • Lead the development and implementation of HR policies and processes to help facilitate the HR needs identified by the Superintendent and administrators, including recruitment, hiring, performance management, and professional development, ensuring a supportive and compliant work environment.
   • Promote a positive organizational culture rooted in Catholic values, fostering collaboration, respect, and continuous improvement among faculty, staff, and administrators.
   • Support the development and implementation of succession planning and leadership development programs for the CAO’s staff to ensure a strong pipeline of future leaders.
5. Facilities and Technology Management
   • Lead the development and implementation of technology initiatives to enhance educational delivery and administrative efficiency.
   • Create and maintain minimum expectations for building management and infrastructure.
6. Compliance and Risk Management
   • Ensure compliance related to administrative activities, with all relevant local, state, and federal regulations, as well as Church guidelines and policies.
   • Develop and implement risk management strategies to protect the assets and reputation of the school system.
   • Oversee legal and regulatory matters, working with external counsel and internal stakeholders as needed.
7. Communication and Stakeholder Engagement
   • Serve as a primary liaison between the administrative team, school leaders, and external stakeholders, including parents, parishes, and the broader community.
   • Communicate effectively with the Board of Directors, Members Board, and other stakeholders regarding operational performance and strategic operational initiatives.
   • Teaming up with the Superintendent, represent the school system at community and Church events, fostering positive relationships and promoting the mission of Catholic education.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Education Administration, or a related field required; Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in administrative leadership, preferably within an educational or nonprofit environment.
• Proven experience in managing complex operations, including finance, HR, and technology.
• Strong understanding of the mission of Catholic education, with a commitment to promoting the mission and values of the Church.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement strategic plans, manage resources effectively, and drive organizational improvement.