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Job Description
POSITION OVERVIEW
Academica is seeking a Chief of Staff to serve as a close partner to the Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer in carrying out the core functions of the executive office. This role directly serves the boards of directors overseen by the Managing Director and COO, with responsibility for the integrity of those board relationships, the execution of work flowing from board meetings, and the day-to-day operations of several departments central to how Academica supports its schools. The Chief of Staff is a member of the executive team and participates directly in executive-level decision making. The person in this role brings calm, organized leadership to a fast-moving environment, builds genuine relationships with the board members we serve, and makes sure that nothing falls through the cracks between meetings.
ABOUT ACADEMICA
Academica is a charter school education management organization supporting more than forty schools across Nevada, Colorado, Wyoming, Arizona, Idaho, and California. We serve fifteen independent school boards and the communities of students and families those schools educate.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Board of Director Support Directly serve the boards of directors overseen by the Managing Director and COO, building close, trust-based relationships with their members. Serve as a consistent and reliable point of contact for those board members between meetings, including periodic check-ins, responsive communication, and proactive outreach. Partner with the Managing Director and COO to anticipate board needs and bring forward issues, opportunities, and information in advance of formal meetings. Travel periodically to attend board meetings, school visits, and in-person engagements across the states Academica serves. Board Meeting Follow-Through Own the post-meeting process for the boards directly served by this role: capture action items, assign ownership, track progress, and confirm completion. Through the Board Meeting Management team, ensure the same standard of follow-through is maintained across every other board Academica serves. Maintain a clear, current record of outstanding board commitments and ensure that follow-ups are closed out on time. Coordinate with department heads and school services teams to make sure board directives are carried out accurately and reported back. Department Leadership Provide direct oversight and strategic direction to the following departments: Board Meeting Management — scheduling, agenda preparation, materials, minutes, and meeting logistics across all served boards. AI & Automation — supporting the team responsible for internal tools, workflow automation, and AI-driven productivity initiatives. Marketing — brand stewardship, enrollment marketing, communications, and school-facing marketing support. Office Operations — headquarters operations, vendor coordination, facilities, and day-to-day office function. Set clear expectations, performance goals, and priorities for each department and the leaders within them. Recruit, develop, and retain strong talent across these teams. Executive Team Participation Contribute to executive-level discussions, planning, and decision making. Support the Managing Director and COO in advancing organizational priorities, including operational rollouts, new initiatives, and cross-functional efforts. Represent the executive office in interactions with school leaders, vendors, and external partners as needed.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required At least seven years of progressive professional experience, including meaningful time in operations, executive support, or a comparable leadership role. Demonstrated experience managing teams and multiple departments simultaneously. Strong record of building relationships with boards, executives, or other senior stakeholders. Excellent written and verbal communication, with the ability to represent the organization with poise. High personal organization, follow-through, and discretion with confidential information. Willingness and ability to travel periodically. Preferred Experience in education, charter schools, nonprofit governance, or a similarly mission-driven sector. Familiarity with board governance practices and procedures. Comfort working with modern productivity, project management, and AI-assisted tools. Graduate degree in business, education, public administration, or a related field.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
Salary for this position is $120,000 per year, paired with Academica's full benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, retirement contributions, paid time off, and additional benefits described during the interview process.
HOW TO APPLY
Interested candidates should submit a resume and a brief cover letter outlining their interest and relevant experience to the Academica recruiting team.
Pay:
$120,000.00 per year
Benefits:
401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Tuition reimbursement Vision insurance Application Question(s): Do you have experience in education, charter schools, or nonprofit governance?
