Executive Assistant to the Superintendent of the Needham Public Schools

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The Needham Public School district is seeking qualified applicants for a full-time Executive Assistant to the Superintendent in the Superintendent's Office. The Executive Assistant to the Superintendent plays a vital role in supporting the Superintendent and the School Committee by providing high-level administrative, organizational, and confidential support.

The Executive Assistant is responsible for the overall management and operation of the Superintendent's Office, including the supervision of the Assistant to the Superintendent; facilitates the work of the School Committee; and acts as a critical liaison between the Needham Public Schools and the general public, including families, community members, and staff. The Executive Assistant drafts and manages the superintendent's correspondence and maintains confidential documents and contracts; coordinates communication efforts, including the use of social media; facilitates the development of School Committee agenda, packets, policies, meetings, and calendar; and organizes and coordinates key district programs and staff functions.

The ideal candidate must possess high-level interpersonal, writing, and organizational skills and demonstrate the ability to quickly synthesize information, initiate written correspondence, and contacts to the media. The ability to maintain confidentiality, exercise good judgment, and anticipate needs and solve problems are critical. The ability to manage and manipulate various technology tools, including Microsoft (e.g., Excel, Word), Google Suite, and other technology applications (e.g., Canva, PowerSchool) is essential; the candidate is also comfortable creating and managing social media and other methods of communication to the public.

The successful candidate will be able to manage multiple and demanding requests without missing deadlines and will possess a calming and reassuring presence.

The successful candidate will:

• Engage, welcome, assist, and direct staff, families, and visitors to the administrative offices
• Have access to and assist with the management of confidential contacts, legal settlements, contract negotiations information and materials, and School Committee business
• Manage email and phone calls, directing inquiries and requests appropriately.
• Compose clear and concise communication regarding district initiatives and policies.
• Manage special projects and initiatives assigned by the Superintendent.
• Collaborate with the Assistant to the Superintendent in managing the superintendent's calendar
• Manage and update School Committee agenda, postings, policies, and correspondence
• Manages district enrollment in consultation with district staff

• Engage in ad hoc project management, research, and data analysis as needed approaching these tasks with a spirit of flexibility and inquiry
• Assist with the smooth and daily operation of the administration building, including aiding visitors and staff
• Ensure the district website remains updated and looks for ways to improve the accessibility and relevance of information shared there
• Respond to sensitive phone calls or Superintendent's email that require a timely and thoughtful reply
• Stay up-to-date on district policies and procedures.
• Exercise independent judgment and initiative to anticipate and address potential issues.
• Maintain confidentiality with sensitive information ensuring students, parents, staff, and other stakeholders can fully trust in the Office of the Superintendent
• Assist with special projects as assigned by the Superintendent many of which will require data skills and independent problem-solving

Skills and Qualifications:

• Discretion, tact, and ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Communicates clearly and professionally in both speech and writing
• Has strong experience in K-16 education or a similar field, ideally in a position supporting school, district, municipal, or college leadership
• Excels at working with databases, Microsoft, and Google Suite tools (docs, sheets, slides); creates accessible and innovative presentations and documents
• Juggles multiple responsibilities and adapts to change
• Maintains and improves organizational systems; identifies opportunities for improvement
• Forges positive collaborative relationships with district colleagues, School Committee members and community partners
• Creates a warm, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all staff, students, families, and visitors
• Safeguards confidential information
• Demonstrates a commitment to celebrating diversity and pursuing equity; demonstrates a commitment to public education and the success of all students.
• A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university required

Minimum Qualifications and Standards Required:

Must be physically able to operate a variety of automated office machines and equipment, including a computer and basic office equipment. Must be able to exert up to five pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects. Must be able to lift/carry weights of five to ten pounds. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time.

Application and Selection Procedure:

Please apply online. The application will be considered only when the online application is completed and a cover letter, resumé, and three letters of recommendation have been attached to your online application. All resumés will be screened and selected candidates will participate in a thorough interview process.

Compensation and Benefits:

This is an exempt twelve-month position with a salary of up to $105,000 based on experience and qualifications. Please read this page to learn more about employee compensation and benefits. Project-based remote work is occasionally available.

About the Needham Public Schools (NPS):

NPS has a deep commitment to the success of our diverse students and families and to the professional accomplishments of its educators. Needham devotes itself to cultural proficiency, equity, and community collaboration to fulfill the vision of the Portrait of a Needham Graduate. This METCO district comprises 5 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, and 1 nationally-ranked high school serving approximately 5,500 students. NPS is committed to addressing equity in the district by focusing on improving academic performance for historically marginalized students and ensuring our schools are safe for every child and free of bias, bullying, and hurtful acts that demean and diminish. Needham Public Schools has a strong commitment to equity. Candidates who also have a strong commitment to this work are encouraged to apply. For more information on our equity work please visit our equity website.

Non-Discrimination Statement:

The Needham Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, active military/veteran status, ancestry, genetic information, or national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, employment policies, and other administered programs and activities. In addition, students who are homeless or of limited English-speaking ability are protected from discrimination in accessing the course of study and other opportunities available through the schools.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $90,000.00 - $105,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Ability to Relocate:

• Needham Heights, MA 02494: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person