About the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA)
The Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy® (IMSA) is an internationally recognized institution dedicated to developing creative and ethical leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Established by the State of Illinois as a teaching and learning laboratory, IMSA provides a rigorous, residential college preparatory program for academically talented students in grades 10-12.
Beyond its residential program, IMSA serves thousands of students and educators across Illinois and beyond through innovative instructional programs designed to foster imagination and inquiry. The academy is also committed to advancing education through research, pioneering initiatives, and strategic partnerships.
About the Role
The Chief Business and Operations Officer (CBOO) will oversee the organization’s operations and procedures, ensuring efficiency, compliance with state regulations, and alignment with IMSA’s strategic priorities. This role manages Business and Finance, Facilities and Capital Planning, Technology Systems, Compliance, and Nutrition Services. Additionally, Human Resources may fall under the CBOO’s supervision if the candidate possesses the necessary expertise.
Reporting directly to the President and serving as a member of the President’s Cabinet, the CBOO plays a critical role in advancing IMSA’s strategic initiatives, particularly those outlined in IMSA 2033: Elevating IMSA Everywhere, by working across departments to drive institutional progress.
Work Schedule
This exempt position requires a full-time commitment, generally Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM, with occasional evening and weekend hours as needed.
About IMSA
The Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy® (IMSA) is an internationally recognized institution that fosters creative and ethical leadership in STEM. Established by the State of Illinois, IMSA provides a rigorous, residential college preparatory program for academically talented students in grades 10-12. Beyond its residential program, IMSA supports thousands of educators and students across Illinois and beyond through innovative instructional programs designed to promote imagination and inquiry (www.imsa.edu).
Commitment to Equity and Inclusion
IMSA is dedicated to fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive learning and working environment. Through its Equity and Excellence model, the institution aims to advance equity in STEM education, increase diverse representation, and create a community of global citizens. The CBOO plays a crucial role in ensuring financial support for programs that help students from Culturally, Linguistically, and Economically Diverse (CLED) backgrounds succeed.
Key Responsibilities
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Provide strategic, operational, and financial leadership for IMSA’s business, facilities, and capital planning functions.
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Develop and maintain policies, procedures, and best practices for financial and operational management.
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Manage IMSA’s state appropriations budget (operating and capital needs), collaborating with the Executive Director of Business and Financial Services and participating in state hearings.
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Develop financial strategies to support capital development and long-term infrastructure.
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Oversee personnel financial planning, ensuring efficient staffing projections and hiring guidelines.
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Establish a capital maintenance plan, balancing quality and cost efficiency, in collaboration with the Executive Director of Facilities and Capital Planning.
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Ensure technology systems meet student and staff needs while aligning with IMSA’s strategic goals, working alongside the Director of Technology.
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Supervise Business and Finance, Facilities and Capital Planning, Technology Systems, Compliance, and Nutrition Services; Human Resources oversight may be included based on qualifications.
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Play a key role in the collective bargaining process for all employee workgroups.
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Lead financial and compliance audits, maintaining well-documented records and implementing action plans for improvements.
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Actively contribute to the President’s Cabinet, leading a Vision 2033 team focused on a strategic priority.
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Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
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Senior-level leadership experience in an organization of comparable complexity and scale.
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MBA or a related Master’s degree required; expertise in accounting, finance, budgeting, and resource planning. Human Resources experience is a plus.
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Chief School Business Official (CSBO) license or comparable credentials preferred.
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Strong background in budgeting, financial management, forecasting, and financial modeling.
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Experience managing capital development projects, including project financing and revenue analysis.
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Proven track record of developing and overseeing multi-million dollar budgets and financial audits.
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Experience staffing and managing business and facilities operations.
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Proficiency in technology integration for accounting, business, and operational management, with a strong understanding of cross-departmental collaboration.