Executive Director of Facilities and Operations

The Francis Howell School District is a great place to live, work, and learn. Serving more than 16,000 students across a rapidly growing community, FHSD is recognized for academic excellence, strong fiscal stewardship, outstanding extracurricular opportunities, and a commitment to providing safe, innovative learning environments for every student.

At Francis Howell, our facilities are more than buildings they are community assets that support student achievement, staff success, and neighborhood pride. We are seeking an exceptional leader to serve as our next Executive Director of Facilities & Operations, a key member of the District's leadership team responsible for ensuring our schools remain safe, efficient, well-maintained, and future-focused.

This is an exciting opportunity for a strategic leader with expertise in facilities management, construction, operations, safety, and project leadership to make a lasting impact on one of the largest and most respected school districts in Missouri.

Position Summary

The Executive Director of Facilities & Operations provides visionary leadership and oversight for all district facilities and operational services, including maintenance, custodial services, grounds, HVAC, warehouse operations, energy management, safety and security, and capital improvement projects. Reporting directly to the Deputy Superintendent of Operations, this position serves as the District's lead administrator for facility planning, construction management, emergency preparedness, and operational excellence. The Executive Director collaborates closely with school administrators, architects, engineers, contractors, municipal partners, and community stakeholders to ensure District facilities effectively support teaching and learning while maximizing taxpayer investments.

Key Responsibilities

The Executive Director will:

• Provide leadership and oversight for district maintenance, custodial, grounds, HVAC, warehouse, and operational services.

• Develop and manage long-range capital improvement plans, facility upgrades, and construction projects.

• Lead the planning, bidding, execution, and monitoring of capital projects and contracted services.

• Ensure all facilities comply with applicable federal, state, and local regulations.

• Oversee district safety and security initiatives, including emergency preparedness planning and collaboration with first responders and law enforcement agencies.

• Manage departmental budgets, purchasing, inventory control, and fiscal resources.

• Direct energy conservation and sustainability initiatives.

• Supervise and develop department leadership personnel while fostering a culture of accountability, customer service, and continuous improvement.

• Serve as a key advisor to district leadership during emergencies, facility disruptions, weather events, and operational challenges.

• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure district facilities support current and future educational needs. 

Why Francis Howell?

At FHSD, we believe outstanding schools require outstanding people. Our district is known for:

• A tradition of excellence in academics, arts, athletics, and student achievement.

• Strong community support and engagement.

• Financial stability and responsible stewardship of taxpayer resources.

• Modern learning environments and ongoing investment in facilities.

• A collaborative leadership culture focused on innovation and continuous improvement.

• A commitment to creating safe, welcoming, and inclusive spaces where students and staff thrive. 

Minimum Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's Degree in Facilities Management, Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field.

• Possess or have the ability to obtain AHERA Certification following employment. 

Experience

• Five (5) or more years of practical construction, facilities, or design experience.

• At least three (3) years of experience supervising personnel in project management, facilities operations, maintenance, construction, or skilled trades.

• Experience in school facilities management or institutional plant operations preferred.

• Experience managing capital projects, budgets, and contracted services preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of construction management, facilities maintenance, custodial operations, energy management, and building systems.

• Ability to interpret construction drawings, specifications, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing plans.

• Knowledge of safety regulations, risk management practices, and emergency preparedness planning.

• Strong project management, organizational, communication, and leadership skills.

• Ability to build productive relationships with staff, contractors, community members, and public officials.

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and complex projects simultaneously. 

Compensation & Benefits

Salary: Minimum $150,000 annually, with salary commensurate with education and experience.

FHSD offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Medical and Dental insurance options

• Vision coverage

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• District-paid basic life insurance ($75,000)

• Participation in Missouri Public School Retirement System (PSRS/PEERS)

• Paid leave benefits 

Application Process

Interested candidates should complete the administrator application through the Francis Howell School District website and upload the following materials:

• Letter of Interest addressed to Lisa Simpkins, Chief Human Resources Officer

• Current Resume

• Three current Letters of Reference (preferred) 

Timeline

• Application Deadline - July 1, 2026

• Screening Interviews - July 6, 2026

• Committee Interviews - July 7, 2026

• BOE Recommendation - July 16, 2026

• Anticipated Start Date - August 1, 2026

If you are a collaborative, service-oriented leader who is passionate about creating safe, efficient, and innovative learning environments, we encourage you to apply. Help shape the future of Francis Howell School District by ensuring our facilities continue to support excellence for students, staff, and the community for years to come.

Francis Howell School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.