This is an exciting executive position for a mission-inspired, faith-based leader who is open to new opportunities and challenges. Leaders from a wide variety of professional backgrounds are encouraged to apply. One’s professional path does not need to be in education, but s/he has to believe in the power of education to transform lives.
About Cristo Rey Seattle High School and the Corporate Work Study Program
Community leaders in Seattle launched a Feasibility Study in 2021, and the study indicates there is a compelling need and sufficient community support to establish a Cristo Rey school in Seattle. Pending approval of the Archbishop, the Provincial of Jesuits West, and the Cristo Rey Network, it will be a coed, Catholic, Jesuit, college preparatory school that will serve students from families with limited economic resources. Cristo Rey Seattle is on track to welcome its inaugural freshman class in the Summer of 2024.
Students will contribute to the cost of their education and gain valuable experience through the Corporate Work Study program. Cristo Rey Seattle has already secured commitments from a number of Corporate Partners throughout Seattle.
About the Cristo Rey Network
Cristo Rey Seattle will be part of a Network of 38 high schools located throughout the U.S. By bringing schools, businesses, and communities together the Network opens doors for students from families of limited economic resources to fulfill their dreams. Cristo Rey schools empower student formation through the integration of rigorous college preparatory academics, four years of professional work experience, support to and through college, and Catholic educational values. Cristo Rey students earn money towards their own private education through the Corporate Work Study program.
About the Position
The role of the founding President/CEO of Cristo Rey Seattle will be critical in establishing the culture of the school as well as its role in the greater Seattle community. The President/CEO will be responsible for hiring the initial leadership team in 2023, completing the Quarterly Benchmark formation process, and opening the school in the Summer of 2024.
The President/CEO will be hired by, and report to, Cristo Rey Seattle’s Board of Directors. S/He will build and lead a team that includes the following direct reports: Principal, Director of Development, Director of Corporate Work Study Program, Chief Financial Officer, and Director of Recruitment. Her/His primary relationships will include senior school administrators; board members; business, religious, and civic leaders; donors; the Cristo Rey Network; and the Jesuits West.
This President/CEO will be expected to be a high profile ambassador for the school in the Seattle business, philanthropic, and faith communities. As a school that serves only students with limited economic resources, the President/CEO will lead a substantial ongoing fundraising and corporate sponsorship recruitment effort every year to secure resources.
Professional Qualifications and Personal Qualities
• Must be a practicing Catholic who is comfortable articulating how social justice is a manifestation of her/his faith
• Experience in Jesuit education and with Ignatian spirituality preferred
• Fundraising and business development experience
• Management experience, including team building and staff development
• Articulate and inspirational communicator
• Creating a vision and implement through strategic planning
• Authentic commitment to living a life that embraces and celebrates diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Bachelor’s degree required. Advanced degree preferred.