Executive Director, Earned Autonomy & Strategic Partnerships

JOB SUMMARY

The role serves as the central partner and relationship manager for all 1882 external partnerships, current and aspiring Level 4 and 5 partner schools, and in-district charter partners. This role ensures that operating partners maintain strong academic outcomes, uphold district expectations, and are able to fully leverage the autonomies granted through Houston ISD’s Earned Autonomy Framework and the individual contract agreements.

The Executive Director will support these aspiring and current operating partners to ensure every student has access to high-quality educational opportunities while maintaining alignment to district expectations and student outcome goals. This role bridges central office systems and partner schools to ensure clarity, alignment, and strong execution.

MAJOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

List most important duties first
1.        Serve as the primary liaison between Houston ISD and all 1882 operating partners and in-district charter partners
2.        Serve as the primary liaison between Houston ISD and all 1882 operating partners and in-district charter partners

3.        Build and maintain strong, strong working relationships with school leaders and partner organizations

4.        Provide ongoing support to ensure operating partners effectively implement their educational models within district guardrails

5.        Facilitate clear communication between current operating partners and central office departments
6.        Monitor academic, operational, and financial performance of operating partners in alignment with district expectations and contractual agreements
7.        Support the development and implementation of performance frameworks tied to the District Action Plan and Department Action Plans
8.        Identify risks to performance early and coordinate supports or interventions as needed
9.        Support annual review processes, including school evaluations, renewals, and recommendations for continuation or exit

MAJOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES CONTINUED

10.        Lead or support annual Earned Autonomy Framework review processes, including eligibility analysis, onboarding, and facilitation of district and TEA-required processes
11.        Percentage of partner campuses earning A/B accountability ratings and demonstrating year-over-year student achievement growth
12.        Percentage of partner schools meeting contractual performance benchmarks and recommended for renewal without corrective action

13.        Percentage of partner support requests resolved within established service level agreements, with partner satisfaction meeting or exceeding district targets
14.        Successful onboarding and launch of new autonomous or partner campuses without major operational or compliance breakdowns

EDUCATION

Master’s degree required, Principal or superintendent certification preferred
Superintendent certification or experience supporting autonomous school models preferred

WORK EXPERIENCE

5 or more years of leadership experience in K–12 education
Experience managing cross-functional initiatives or partnerships
Experience leading school improvement, partnerships, or systems-level strategy work preferred 
Experience with school operations, accountability systems, or performance management preferred
Experience working with SB 1882 partnerships, autonomy-based school models, or in-district charter school models strongly preferred

SKILL AND/OR REQUIRED LICENSING/CERTIFICATION

Strong strategic thinking and analytical skills, with the ability to translate vision into actionable plans.
Demonstrated track record of successfully leading and managing teams, fostering a high-performance culture.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage and influence
stakeholders at all levels.
Strong financial acumen, with experience in budget planning, financial management, and resource allocation.
Proven ability to develop and implement strategic initiatives that drive organizational growth and impact.
Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making abilities, with the capacity to navigate complex challenges.
Demonstrated ability to build and maintain positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
Knowledge of relevant indus