Executive Director of Friends

Executive Director of Friends

MISSION:

The mission of Marion P. Thomas Charter School is to build culturally rich, transformative educational spaces that cultivate successful, lifelong innovators who use their passions, character, and intellect to better themselves, the greater Newark community, and the world beyond.

The Executive Director of Friends of Marion P. Thomas Charter School (FMPTCS) is responsible for the strategic leadership, operational management, and real estate development of FMPTCS in support of the long-term growth and sustainability of Marion P. Thomas Charter School. This includes overseeing all aspects of real estate planning and execution, fiscal management, board governance, and community engagement.

Do you have what it takes?

• Five years of direct experience in real estate and operational management
• Knowledge of educational facilities and regulations
• Working knowledge of real estate finance
• Knowledge of construction and redevelopment
• Community development/redevelopment experience
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Strong organization and task management skills
• Working knowledge of various real estate financing sources including New Market
• Tax Credits, Tax Exempt Bonds, HOME, CDBG, LIHTC, Historic Tax Credits, etc.
• Experience working with various government entities including HFAs, redevelopment authorities, municipalities a bonus but not required
  

THE ROLE:

Strategic Planning & Leadership

Partner with the Superintendent to develop and execute short- and long-term strategic plans

Lead the planning and oversight of new real estate development projects that align with MPTCSs academic and enrollment goals
Serve as a non-voting member and Board Secretary for the Friends Board of Directors

Represent FMPTCS in the broader community, maintaining strong relationships with key stakeholders

Real Estate Development & Facilities Oversight

Oversee and manage real estate development activities for all FMPTCS capital projects

Develop and manage real estate project budgets, schedules, milestones, and funding strategies

Coordinate procurement and oversight of architects, engineers, contractors, and legal counsel

Secure necessary permits, zoning approvals, and regulatory compliance for construction projects

Lead the completion of accurate, updated Existing Conditions Reports for all MPTCS facilities in collaboration with the Facilities Director and district leadership

Liaise with the MPTCS Facilities Director and Leadership Team to align facility planning with school needs

Operational Management

Oversee day-to-day operations of FMPTCS, including compliance, systems, and reporting

Review and manage all FMPTCS contracts, vendor agreements, and consultant relationships

Develop, implement, and maintain internal controls, policies, and procedures to ensure organizational compliance and effectiveness

Provide staff management, supervision, and annual evaluations

Financial Management & Compliance

Lead operational and budget management for FMPTCS, including financial forecasting and reporting

Ensure fiscal compliance through timely audits and nonprofit financial reporting
Identify and pursue financing sources for development projects, including philanthropic, public, and private funds

Maintain accurate records of all financial activities and ensure compliance with 501(c)(3) regulations

Governance & Board Relations

Coordinate with the Board Chair to prepare agendas, minutes, and materials for board meetings

Keep the Friends Board of Directors informed about the organizations performance and strategic issues

Support board recruitment, training, and development initiatives

Other Duties

Build strong relationships with community leaders, philanthropic partners, and elected officials to advocate for FMPTCS

Complete special projects and assignments as reasonably directed by the Superintendent and Board of Directors

Salary range: Commensurate with experience
Term of Employment: 12 months
Union: Unaffiliated

Next Steps: MPTCS is currently reviewing applications on a rolling basis. Due to the high volume of responses received not every applicant will be contacted. If you meet the qualifications, you will be contacted to move forward in the selection process.

Marion P. Thomas Charter School provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.