Chief Operating Officer (COO)

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 smooth daily operations across both current and future campuses. 
• Oversee facilities, transportation, technology, risk management, compliance, and HR, to ensure high-quality execution and alignment with school goals 
• Partner with the HOS to execute the strategic vision for school growth, sustainability and operational excellence. 
• Lead the planning and execution of operational initiatives, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities. 

Facilities, Technology & Vendor Management 

• Oversee building maintenance, transportation, and capital improvements to ensure a safe and effective learning environment. 
• Manage vendor contracts for key services such transportation, after school programs, custodial services,technology, and security. 
• Ensure that the school’s technology infrastructure supports student learning and school operations. 

Risk Management

• Collaborate with 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 key systems including: annual safety planning, emergency notification system, visitor management.

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.

• Bachelor’s degree (relevant graduate degree preferred) with at least 5+ years of leadership experience in school operations, nonprofit management, or a related field.
•  Proven track record of success in managing complex operational systems and leading strategic initiatives. 
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing budgets. 
• Demonstrated success leading teams, coaching direct reports, and building strong cross-functional relationships. 
• Exceptional problem-solving and organizational skills. 
• A passion for equitable, high-quality education and community impact. 
• 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