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.
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 MPTCS's 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 organization's 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.
Executive Director • Newark, NJ, US