Schedule
7:15am-4:15pm, unless otherwise approved
Salary: $100,000-$130,000
What is the opportunity?
This is an opportunity to make a meaningful, network-wide impact by shaping the operational systems that keep our schools running and our scholars thriving. Foundation Academies is seeking a strategic, solutions-oriented Senior Director of Operations to lead transportation, enrollment and re-enrollment, and food service across our campuses. Reporting to the COO, this leader will have the opportunity to build strong teams, strengthen systems, solve complex operational challenges, and drive measurable improvements that enhance the experience of our scholars, families, and staff. We are looking for an independent leader who sees opportunities where others see obstacles and is motivated to turn strong operational execution into organizational impact.
What is in it for you?
Merit-based pay increases annually
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefit plans
Tax-deferred 403b retirement account with 25% matching up to a certain amount
Free financial wellness advising through our Financial Advisor Service
Optional short or long-term disability benefits through Aflac
Regular strategic professional development and coaching
Career advancement opportunities
Smartphone and fully paid wireless plan through T-Mobile
Windows-based laptop
Regular team-building activities and outings
10 sick days and 3 personal days that roll over annually
Up to 30 paid holiday observances
A rewarding career that positively impacts the lives of our amazing students
What will you be doing?
Lead transportation, enrollment and re-enrollment, and food service operations across multiple campuses, ensuring reliable, consistent, high-quality service.
Build, implement, and continuously improve operational systems, procedures, and performance measures.
Lead, coach, and develop functional leaders, establishing clear expectations, accountability, and opportunities for growth.
Oversee transportation logistics, fleet readiness, vendor performance, and daily service needs.
Drive efficient enrollment and re-enrollment processes, maintaining accurate data and a welcoming family experience.
Manage contracted food service operations, ensuring service quality, food safety, and vendor accountability.
Oversee departmental budgets, monitor expenses, identify efficiencies, and support responsible resource planning.
Use operational data and performance trends to identify challenges, measure results, and drive continuous improvement.
Partner with Principals and network leaders to strengthen cross-campus coordination while maintaining clear roles and accountability.
Proactively identify operational risks, resolve challenges, and communicate recommendations and emerging needs to the COO.
What do we require from you?
Bachelor's degree and at least five years of progressively responsible operational leadership experience.
Seven or more years of leadership experience preferred.
Demonstrated experience supervising, coaching, and developing teams across multiple functions or complex operations.
Proven ability to manage operating budgets, oversee vendor relationships and contracts, and drive financial and operational accountability.
Strong track record of building effective systems, improving processes, and delivering measurable results.
Ability to exercise independent judgment, solve complex problems, prioritize competing demands, and make sound decisions.
Strong analytical, communication, relationship-building, and organizational skills.
Proficiency in Google Workspace or comparable digital productivity, reporting, and tracking tools.
Experience in K-12 education, public charter schools, nonprofit organizations, logistics, or multi-site operations preferred.
Familiarity with student information and enrollment platforms such as Alma or SchoolMint, transportation fleet operations, or school nutrition and food service management preferred.
Knowledge of New Jersey public school operations,…