Description
EXECUTIVE OPPORTUNITY
AN INVITATION TO APPLY FOR THE POSITION OF
CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER
WEST WARWICK PUBLIC SCHOOLS, RHODE ISLAND
The West Warwick Public Schools invites dynamic and accomplished professionals to apply for the position of Chief Operations Officer (COO)—a pivotal member of the executive leadership team committed to advancing the district’s mission of educational excellence and fiscal responsibility.
About the Town of West Warwick
Incorporated as a separate town in 1913, West Warwick, Rhode Island, has a rich heritage rooted in the textile industry along the Pawtuxet River. Today, the community blends historic charm with modern spirit—a welcoming place for families, innovation, and civic engagement.
About West Warwick Public Schools
West Warwick Public Schools (WWPS) serves approximately 3,562 PK-12students in six school facilities and focuses on providing a safe, comprehensive education. The annual budget is $77,856,931
For more information about the district, please visit: https://www.westwarwickpublicschools.com/
About the Position
The Chief Operations Officer will oversee the district’s financial strategy and operations, including budgeting, accounting, financial reporting, and compliance with GAAP and GASB standards. The COO will ensure sound internal controls, lead financial planning and analysis, and manage risk, audits, and fiscal forecasting to support administrative leadership and the School Committee in informed decision-making.
Beyond finance, this role directs key operational areas such as procurement, contract management, and administration of federal, state, and local grants, as well as oversight of the district’s debt service and bond issuances. The successful candidate will bring vision and integrity to managing resources that directly support student learning and school success.
The COO will also serve as a key communicator, translating complex financial information into clear, accessible reports and presentations for diverse audiences, including the School Committee and community stakeholders. Evening or weekend availability may occasionally be required to support major budget deadlines or school events.
This full-time role is based at the district’s Central Administration Building and offers a competitive salary and benefits package.
Desired Qualifications
The ideal candidate will hold a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (Master’s or CPA preferred), possess or be eligible for Rhode Island Department of Education school business official certification, and demonstrate at least three to five years of financial leadership experience, ideally within public education or a comparable public institution. Strong leadership, analytical, organizational, and communication skills—as well as proficiency with financial systems, Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and school data tools—are essential.
Timeline
The application deadline is April 17, 2026. Review of materials will begin immediately after the deadline. The expected start date for the successful candidate is July 1, 2026.
For more information, please contact:
Dr. Victor Mercurio or Alexis Meyer
West Warwick Chief Operations Officer Search
NESDEC, 28 Lord Road, Marlborough, MA 01752
Phone: 508-481-9444, Email: search@nesdec.org
To access the application, please visit www.nesdec.org
https://www.applitrack.com/nesdec/onlineapp/
If you are ready to play a strategic leadership role in shaping the future of West Warwick Public Schools, you are invited to apply. Join WWPS in its proud tradition of serving the students and families of this vibrant Rhode Island community.
