Chief of Staff

Chief Of Staff

The Chief of Staff serves as a strategic partner, advisor, and problem solver to the Superintendent of Schools. This role oversees the administration of the school division, manages special projects, leads key initiatives, and represents the Superintendent at public and community events. This role will work closely with strategic initiatives and project management, internal and external communications, school board, legal and policy coordination, legislative affairs and government relations, data, research and performance oversight, executive operations and superintendent support, community engagement and partnerships, change management and continuous process improvement. The position ensures alignment of division-wide efforts with Norfolk Public Schools' mission, strategic plan, equity priorities, and compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

The Chief of Staff reports directly to the Superintendent of Schools and serves as a member of the Superintendent's Executive Leadership Team. The position provides strategic counsel and operational support to the Superintendent and executive leadership team to ensure effective implementation of division priorities. The position is responsible for facilitating strategic coordination, organizational alignment, executive communications, and operational efficiency across departments and initiatives. The position provides direct supervision to assigned personnel and may oversee cross-departmental project teams and initiatives.

Essential Functions of the Class

Acts as a key strategic advisor, decision-maker, and liaison for the Superintendent.

Supports the development and implementation of the division's strategic plan and organizational initiatives.

Coordinates division-wide projects, special assignments, and key initiatives with an emphasis on equity and diversity.

Analyzes complex organizational, operational, legislative, and educational issues and provides recommendations to the Superintendent and executive leadership team.

Facilitates communication and collaboration among departments, schools, the School Board, community organizations, governmental agencies, and other stakeholders.

Represents the Superintendent at meetings, public events, legislative sessions, and community engagements as assigned.

Ensures compliance with laws, regulations, policies, and mandates affecting the division.

Facilitates communication between the Superintendent's Office, departments, and external partners.

Assists in the development, review, and implementation of Board policies, administrative procedures, and division regulations.

Supports legislative advocacy efforts and maintains productive relationships with local, state, and regional partners.

Monitors progress of division initiatives, reports on developments, and tracks key performance metrics.

Ensures compliance with applicable federal laws, Virginia Department of Education regulations, School Board policies, and division procedures.

Drafts correspondence, reports, and presentations on behalf of the Superintendent.

Coordinates division-wide crisis response communication and executive operational support as needed.

Performs other duties as assigned to support division operations and strategic priorities.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Demonstrated leadership, strategic planning, and organizational management skills.

Strong analytical, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.

Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Ability to build consensus and foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders.

Knowledge of educational policies, laws, and regulations at federal, state, and local levels.

Proven experience in strategic planning, project management, and change management.

Ability to effectively manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.

Familiarity with Virginia's Standards of Quality (SOQ), School Quality Profiles, accountability systems, and statewide educational initiatives.

Experience working with School Boards, government agencies, legislators, community organizations, and external partners.

Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment in sensitive matters.

Minimum Education, Training and Experience Requirements

Master's degree in Educational Leadership, Public Administration, Communications, Business Administration, or a related field required; doctorate preferred. Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible leadership experience in public education, government, nonprofit, or related sectors.

Valid Virginia administrative license or eligibility for Virginia licensure, if applicable. Certification or advanced training in project management, leadership development, or organizational management preferred.

Physical Demands

Standard office work involving prolonged sitting, standing, and computer use. Occasional travel to schools, meetings, conferences, and community events. No significant physical exertion required. Ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.

Work Environment

Primarily office-based in a school division administrative setting. Regular attendance at School Board meetings, community events, public meetings, and external engagements is required. Collaborative environment requiring interaction with staff, community members, and government officials. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required.

Role Specific Demands

The Chief of Staff is expected to demonstrate professionalism, integrity, sound judgment, political acumen, and a strong commitment to advancing educational excellence, equity, and organizational effectiveness. The position requires the ability to navigate complex issues, maintain confidentiality, and support a collaborative and inclusive culture aligned with the mission and values of Norfolk Public Schools.