(43) Make or Break: The Executive Director–Business Manager Relationship

8.30am – 9.30am MST, 4 March 2027 ‐ 1 hour

Room: Red Rock 1

Workshop Sessions

The relationship between an executive director and business manager can make or break a charter school. When the partnership is strong, trust, communication, and shared leadership help keep school operations running smoothly. When it becomes strained, the consequences can ripple throughout the organization.

Drawing on real-world experiences and lessons learned at Prospect Ridge Academy, two school leaders will explore the challenges and opportunities within this critical partnership. They will examine how differences in priorities, communication styles, and expectations can affect decision-making, financial oversight, and day-to-day operations.

Gain insights into what makes this relationship work, where potential pitfalls lie, and how executive directors and business managers can build a stronger, more collaborative partnership that supports their school's long-term success.