Strategic COO — Education Operations & Growth

University Prep Schools; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 150,000 - 230,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

401(k) with employer match

Professional growth opportunities

Detroit-based role

Job summary

University Prep Schools in Detroit seeks a highly capable Chief Operating Officer to lead the Operations House including HR, Finance, IT, Attendance, Athletics, and Marketing. The role reports to the CEO and drives operational systems that support teaching, learning, and student outcomes.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in operations or business management within complex environments, with strong change leadership and a commitment to equity.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; master’s preferred.
• Experience leading and developing high‑performing teams.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to implement operational systems and drive efficiency.
• Commitment to equity and inclusion in organizational practices.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Operations House (HR, Finance, Athletics, IT, Attendance, Marketing).
• Coach and develop department leaders; foster accountability and collaboration.
• Translate strategic priorities into sustainable financial plans and budgets.
• Drive automation, SOPs, and process improvements across operations.
• Partner with academic leaders to align operations with student outcomes.

Skills

People leadership

Communication skills

Strategic thinking

Problem solving

Technology literacy

Change management

Data systems

Team development

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

HR systems

Payroll systems

Finance systems

Job description

University Prep Schools in Detroit seeks a highly capable Chief Operating Officer to lead the Operations House including HR, Finance, IT, Attendance, Athletics, and Marketing. The role reports to the CEO and drives operational systems that support teaching, learning, and student outcomes.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in operations or business management within complex environments, with strong change leadership and a commitment to equity.