Managing Director of Operations

Founded in 1956, Neuchâtel Junior College (NJC) provides a unique international education experience to students in their pre-university / final year of high school. Located in the 11th century French-speaking city of Neuchâtel, Switzerland, NJC students earn Ontario Grade 12 Ontario curriculum credits. This close-knit community of students reside with homestay boarding families, providing students with a complete immersion in European life. NJC graduates are knowledgeable, confident, and independent leaders.

NJC is a Swiss non-profit foundation of the Ville de Neuchâtel and is governed by a Swiss Board of Governors (Le Conseil de Fondation) that works in close collaboration with a Canadian Advisory Committee (CAC).

Additionally, the Neuchâtel Junior College Fund, a registered Canadian charity, is dedicated to responsible fundraising and asset stewardship in support of NJC. The Fund, incorporated in 1977, works in the service of long-term preservation and enhancement of the school and its legacy. A Board of Directors provides oversight to the NJC Fund.

Position Summary

The Managing Director of Operations (MDO) is located in the Toronto office of NJC. The MDO reports to the Head of School and is a key member of the School’s Senior Leadership Team. The incumbent will be expected to partner with the Head of School and departmental leaders in developing strategies to deliver on the School’s mission and strategic plan.

The MDO works closely to support the Head of School to implement and execute the School’s strategy. The MDO also has specific accountability for the delivery and execution of all non-academic operations for NJC including:

Student Recruitment, Admissions and Enrolment

The MDO provides oversight for all student recruitment, admissions and enrolment activities, including but not limited to the following: outreach, marketing, information sessions, screening of student applicants, and all operational aspects to set up students for residence in Switzerland (visa, tuition payments, medical forms, permission forms, etc.). As required, the role will also be expected to actively support admissions activities, which may require some travel. The MDO will be accountable for meeting target levels of enrolment annually, as established by the Head of School, CAC and Conseil.

Marketing and Communications

In consultation with the Head of School, the MDO will develop and implement all marketing, social media, and branding initiatives. The MDO is also responsible for providing oversight on all communications, including parents, students, alumni, and external stakeholders.

Accounting and Financial Reporting

The MDO is responsible for annual budgeting, monthly financial reconciliation and reporting, and management of the Canadian Office budget. Additionally, the MDO is responsible for partnering with auditors and ensuring timely submissions to the CRA for the Neuchâtel Junior College Fund.

Technology

The MDO is responsible for technology, systems, and data management to support School operations and academic programs, provide access for students and staff, and manage databases (Blackbaud) related to students, alumni, parents, and fundraising (Raiser’s Edge).

Advancement, Alumni Relations and The NJC Fund

The MDO provides oversight to fundraising, advancement, and alumni relations activities, with active participation in these activities as needed. These activities will include the establishment of funding goals with the Head of School and CAC, defining appropriate fundable projects, etc. As required, the role will also be expected to actively support the advancement and alumni relations activities, which may require some travel.

Governance Support

The MDO is responsible for managing Board software, taking minutes at meetings and committee meetings. The MDO is also responsible for supporting the planning of Board events, Chair travel, and meeting pre-read preparation.

Education and Experience

The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 10-15 years of broad management experience in an independent school. Experience in international schooling would be an advantage. The candidate should have an extensive background in financial and daily operations of a school, with significant exposure to marketing and communications. Experience in fundraising, advancement, and alumni relations, as well as proficiency in French, would be an asset.

Application Process

Candidates will be reviewed upon submission. Please send a resume and covering letter addressed to Andrew Keleher by email to Megan Watt (email@example.com) by April 7, 2025.