Executive Director

Position: Executive DirectorReports To: Board of TrusteesCompensation: Highly competitive and commensurate with experience. A comprehensive benefits package and extensive professional development opportunities are included.Status: Full TimeAbout Merrick Academy:Merrick Academy, a leading K-8 public charter school in Queens, is at the forefront of academic excellence, equity, and innovation. With an emphasis on STEAM-based learning and inquiry-driven instruction, Merrick Academy is also a candidate for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme. The school is poised for exciting growth with the opening of a new state-of-the-art campus in the next 12-18 months, uniting its main and satellite campuses and supporting the expansion to middle school grades.Position Summary:The Executive Director (ED) is Merrick Academy's chief executive, responsible for driving the strategic vision and operational excellence of the school. Reporting directly to the Board of Trustees, the ED oversees all aspects of the organization, ensuring the school meets academic, operational, and financial goals while fulfilling its mission to provide an exceptional and equitable education. The ED directly supervises the Executive Leadership team and works collaboratively with leadership, faculty, and community stakeholders to position Merrick Academy as a model of student achievement and innovation.Essential Job Duties & ResponsibilitiesVision-Setting and InnovationLead the development and execution of a strategic plan that aligns with Merrick Academys goals, including academic excellence, expansion to middle school, and achieving IB authorization.Establish a sustainable long-term development and fundraising strategy, building partnerships with philanthropic organizations, businesses, and community stakeholders to secure resources and opportunities.Serve as a thought leader, fostering innovation in programming, operations, and culture, while maintaining alignment with Merrick's mission and values.Organizational LeadershipOversee and manage the leadership team, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities and promoting a collaborative, mission-driven culture.Build and maintain an organizational structure that supports growth, accountability, and continuous improvement across all operational and academic areas.Lead efforts to enhance the school's governance, including the development of Board committees aligned to strategic goals.Operational and Financial OversightEnsure the efficient and effective management of school operations, including facilities planning, compliance, and fiscal responsibility.Oversee the preparation and management of the school's budget, ensuring financial sustainability and alignment with strategic goals.Successfully manage the transition to the new campus, ensuring it meets operational needs and enhances the school's ability to serve its community.Academic ExcellenceDrive a culture of high performance and accountability, meeting or exceeding SUNY Accountability Metrics and promoting excellence in academic and operational outcomes.Collaborate with the academic team to implement inquiry-based learning, STEAM initiatives, and the IB framework, ensuring equitable access and achievement for all students.Community and Stakeholder EngagementBuild strong relationships with families, community partners, and local organizations to foster a supportive and engaged school community.Serve as the primary spokesperson for Merrick Academy, advocating for the school's mission and vision with external stakeholders, including SUNY and regulatory bodies.Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion across all aspects of the organization, ensuring the school remains a welcoming and inclusive environment.Key DeliverablesDevelop and execute a strategic plan aligned with Merrick Academy's mission, expansion plans, and charter renewal goals.Lead the successful opening of the new campus, ensuring operational readiness and stakeholder alignment.Build a sustainable development strategy, securing funding and resources to support growth and innovation.Maintain high levels of accountability and performance aligned with SUNY and organizational standards.Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, and equity throughout the school community.Qualifications and Key CompetenciesAn advanced degree in education, leadership, or a related field; a doctorate is preferred.Minimum of 8 years of experience in educational leadership, including at least 3 years as a successful school principal with a proven track record of driving academic excellence and student achievement.Proven expertise in strategic planning, operational oversight, and effective leadership within complex educational environments.Deep understanding of inquiry-based learning, STEAM programming, and the IB framework.Strong financial acumen, with experience in budgeting, fundraising, and resource management.Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective partnerships with diverse stakeholders.Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and engage a wide range of audiences.Commitment to equity, innovation, and continuous improvement in education.Experience managing large-scale projects, such as facilities transitions or organizational growth.Proficiency in data-driven decision-making and performance management.Preferred: New York State School Building Leader (SBL) or School District Leader (SDL) certification, or equivalent certification from another state.

Created: 2025-02-09