Job Description

Description

Menlo School, a leading private independent school in Atherton, California, seeks a mission-focused, inspiring, and strategic leader to serve as the next director of athletics. This is an on-site leadership role with an anticipated start date in late Spring 2026.

Menlo School is an independent, coeducational, college-preparatory school for students in grades six through twelve. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley and founded in 1915, the School is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and is a member of the National and California Associations of Independent Schools. Menlo School’s mission is to empower students to explore and expand their interests, reach their fullest potential, develop the skills necessary for success in college, and become ethical, responsible, and engaged members of ever wider communities.

Reporting to the head of school and serving on the senior leadership team, the director of athletics plays a key role in advancing the School’s mission to prepare students to make a positive impact in the world. With enthusiasm and clear focus on the athletics strategic priorities, particularly the ‘Character Above All’ pillar, the director will strategically lead the athletics department in fostering resilience, joy, courage, and a commitment to purposes larger than oneself through athletic participation and competition. The director will exemplify Menlo’s tradition of athletic excellence while ensuring that all students have opportunities to discover and develop humility, honor, grace, and character through sports.

More than 80 percent of Upper School students participate in athletics during at least one semester each year, and all Middle School students engage in sports through the physical education program integrated into the school day. The director oversees a department that includes 15 Upper School sports, 12 Middle School sports, nearly 100 full-time and part-time coaches and staff, and an overall budget of approximately $5 million.

The salary range is $180,000 to $250,000, contingent upon experience level.

Qualifications

Minimum qualifications include a bachelor’s degree and seven years of progressive leadership, people management, and hands-on management experience. A master’s degree in athletic administration, education, leadership, or a related field is preferred. Athletics leadership is a plus, but not a requirement. 

Application and Nomination

Menlo School has selected Spelman Johnson, a leading executive search firm, to assist with leading this search. Review of applications will begin February 9, 2026, and continue until the position is filled. Submit a resume and cover letter via https://spelmanandjohnson.com/position/director-of-athletics/.

• Contact Anne-Marie Kenney at amk@spelmanjohnson.comor Michel Frendian mrf@spelmanjohnson.comfor confidential inquiries.

• Applicants needing reasonable accommodation to participate in the application process should contact Spelman Johnson at 413-529-2895 or email info@spelmanjohnson.com

Visit the Menlo School website at www.menloschool.org  

Menlo School is committed to a policy of non-discrimination and equal opportunity for all employees and qualified applicants. We administer all personnel practices without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status or domestic partnership status, disability, protected veteran status or military status, genetic information, or any other category protected under applicable law.

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