Heather McManus

As the Chief People Officer, Heather is responsible for developing an inspiring vision for a strong organizational culture focused on learning and continuous improvement. Prior to stepping into the CPO role, Heather was a Partner on the Innovative Schools team where she worked with leaders across the country to design and open schools that reimagine learning for students.

Heather began her career as a classroom teacher in Los Angeles Unified School District teaching middle and high school English Language Arts. She spent the majority of her career as a school and district leader at Camino Nuevo Charter Academy (CNCA), a network of schools near downtown Los Angeles. She served as an Assistant Principal and Principal of the Kayne Siart Campus, the highest performing K-8 school during her tenure at CNCA. As the Chief Learning Officer, Heather’s work included overseeing curriculum and instruction, school management, special education, knowledge management, programs, and human assets.

Heather received BAs in English and psychology and a secondary teaching certificate from the University of Michigan. She received her MA in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from California State University, Northridge. Most recently, Heather completed her Doctorate in Educational Leadership for Social Justice from Loyola Marymount University. She lives in Los Angeles, California with her puppy, Loki.