About Us:
Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School is an independent community school serving students in TK–8. Our mission is to cultivate a joyful learning community that builds students’ capacity for critical thinking, creativity, and moral courage through a complementary curriculum of general and Jewish studies.
Hausner enrolls approximately 340 students and offers a rigorous academic program supported by small class sizes, exceptional faculty, and a strong sense of community. We are committed to educating the whole child and to fostering an inclusive, diverse environment grounded in shared values.
About the Position:
Gideon Hausner Jewish Day school, a TK-8 independent Jewish day school in Palo Alto, CA seeks a strategic and results-driven Chief Operating Officer (COO). The COO is a key member of the senior leadership team and is responsible for ensuring that the school operates efficiently, sustainably, and in alignment with its mission.
The COO oversees facilities, technology, compliance, human resources, risk management, food services, and other operational functions. Reporting directly to the Head of School (HOS), the COO develops and executes operational strategies that enable school leaders and faculty to focus on delivering an exceptional educational experience.
Job Responsibilities:
Operational Leadership & Strategy:
- Develop and implement systems, policies, and procedures to ensure effective daily operations across both current and future campuses.
- Provide executive oversight of facilities, transportation, technology, risk management, compliance, and human resources.,
- Partner with the HOS to execute the school’s strategic plan and support sustainable growth.
- Lead the planning and execution of operational initiatives, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities.
Facilities, Technology & Vendor Management
- Oversee building maintenance, transportation, food services, and capital improvements to ensure a safe and effective learning environment.
- Negotiate and manage vendor contracts for key services including transportation, after-school programs, custodial services, technology, and security.
- Ensure that the school’s technology infrastructure supports student learning and school operations.
Risk Management & Legal
- Collaborate with the HOS, Board of Directors, and insurance providers to proactively mitigate and respond to emergent risks
- Serve as lead point of contact for outside counsel, collaborating as needed around legal issues that arise
- Oversee safety planning, emergency response protocols, crisis management procedures, and compliance monitoring systems.
Compliance & Human Resources:
- Ensure compliance with all state, local, and federal regulations, , including reporting, employment law, charter requirements, and safety regulations.
- Supervise and partner with external HR consultants.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in business, finance, education leadership, or related field preferred.
- 5+ years of progressive leadership experience in school operations, nonprofit management, or a related field.
- Proven experience leading complex operational systems and cross-functional teams..
- Demonstrated financial management experience including budgeting and forecasting.
- Demonstrated success leading teams, coaching direct reports, and building strong cross-functional relationships.
- Exceptional analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Commitment to equity, community engagement, and high-quality education.
- Belief in and alignment with Hausner’s core values and educational philosophy.
Compensation:
- Competitive salary range: $175,000-$200,000 annually, dependent on experience
- Benefits including: Medical, Dental, Vision, 403b Retirement Plan, Long- and Short-term Disability, Voluntary Life/Accident Insurance, Work-Life Balance Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Pre-tax payroll deduction also available for Commuter Checks and Flexible Spending Account.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to a welcoming and inclusive community where individuals of all backgrounds are respected and valued. We do not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, religion, veteran status, national or ethnic origin, or any other status protected by law