The internationally recognized Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy® (IMSA) seeks an innovative Chief People, Business, and Operations Officer to oversee IMSA’s operations and procedures, ensuring that IMSA is operating efficiently and compliantly and also equipped to advance its strategic priorities. 

Ranked the #1 college preparatory public high school in Illinois and #1 STEM high school in Illinois, IMSA develops creative, ethical leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. As a teaching and learning laboratory created by the State of Illinois, IMSA enrolls academically talented Illinois students (grades 10-12) in its advanced, residential college preparatory program. It also serves thousands of educators and students in Illinois and beyond through innovative instructional programs that foster imagination and inquiry. Graduates are leaders in the business, education, scientific, and civic sectors. 

Position Summary

IMSA’s Chief People, Business, and Operations Officer will oversee the Business Office, Human Resources, Facilities and Capital Planning, Technology Systems, Compliance, and Nutrition Services. This position reports to the President and is a member of the President’s Cabinet. As a member of the Cabinet, the Chief People, Business, and Operations Officer will help advance IMSA’s strategic priorities described in IMSA 2033 Elevating IMSA Everywhere, which involves engaging cross-department teams. 

The Chief People, Business, and Operations Officer provides comprehensive oversight of IMSA's financial, operational, and strategic functions, including managing the annual state budget appropriation process and supervising multiple departments such as Business and Finance, Human Resources, Facilities, Technology, and Compliance. The role requires collaboration with various directors to ensure cost-effective operations while developing financial projections, capital maintenance plans, and technology systems that support organizational needs. Key responsibilities include serving as liaison with legal counsel on personnel matters, leading collective bargaining processes with union representatives, and managing state financial audits. As a member of the President's cabinet, the executive actively participates in strategic planning initiatives, particularly leading Vision 2033 teams to advance IMSA's long-term organizational priorities. 

The successful candidate must demonstrate extensive financial leadership capabilities, including multi-million-dollar budget management, capital project financing, compliance oversight, and comprehensive knowledge of accounting, HR, and operational systems. They should have proven experience in financial modeling, revenue projections, staffing management, and technology integration across departments. A Master’s degree is required; an MBA is preferred. 

Salary and Benefits

This leadership position is a full-time, exempt, 12-month, employment-at-will position. The salary range for the position, which is regionally commensurate with training and experience in like institutions, is $144,500 to $192,000. IMSA offers a comprehensive state benefits package (major medical, dental, vision, and prescription) with rates found here, a generous paid time off plan, and a retirement plan through the State University Retirement System (SURS). SURS is reciprocal with other Illinois public retirement systems such as the Teachers’ Retirement System of Illinois (TRS) and the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF).  

To Apply

The Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy has retained Opus Partners to support this recruitment. Kenna Boyd, Partner, Ann K. Adams, JD, Associate Partner, and Abigail Maynard, MA, Managing Associate, are leading the search. Confidential inquiries and nominations should be submitted by email to Abigail Maynard at abigail.maynard@opuspartners.net. Required application materials include a resume and cover letter that addresses the responsibilities and qualifications of the role. The search process will unfold with the greatest possible attention to candidate confidentiality.

The Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer providing equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, sex, age, religion, or national origin. This policy also includes the handicapped and all disabled Vietnam era veterans. IMSA utilizes only job-related criteria in making decisions concerning applicants and employees.