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The YMCA of Rock River Valley is seeking a cause-driven leader to serve as the Early Childhood Center Director.
Job Description
The Center Director of the Children's Learning Center plays a pivotal role in shaping the educational and developmental journey of the youngest minds in our community. This leadership position calls for a passionate and innovative individual capable of managing day-to-day operations while fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment for children, families, and staff. The Center Director leads and inspires a diverse team of educators to deliver high-quality, engaging programming that supports each child’s individual development, preparing them for future success in school and life. With a strong commitment to outstanding customer service, organizational excellence, and the ability to effectively multitask, the Center Director ensures the center operates smoothly and upholds our core mission, culture, and values.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field with sufficient credits in ECE to meet DCFS Qualifications for Child Care Director
- At least 3 years of experience in childcare management or administration. Knowledge of Circle of Quality and NAEYC/NAC preferred.
- Experience with budget management and revenue generation preferred
- Current medical report including physical exam and tuberculin test, updated every two years.
- Must pass DCFS background check.
- CPR, AED, First Aid, and HWC Certifications required within 90 days of hire. Additional mandatory training includes Child Abuse Prevention, Blood-borne Pathogens, and IL DCFS Mandated Reporter training.
- YMCA Multi-Team Leader certification preferred.
- Ability to direct programs through supervision of volunteers and staff, develop and monitor budgets, and engage in marketing, public relations, program development, and fundraising.
- Proven ability to forge authentic and deepened relationships and establish collaborations with community organizations.
- Effective at relating to diverse groups from all social and economic segments of the community.
- Commitment to the YMCA character development values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility are required.
Essential Functions
1. Lead a team of exceptional educators and directors in an ethical and moral manner consistent with the mission and vision of the YMCA, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation in early childhood education.
2. Uphold the highest standards of safety and regulatory compliance, ensuring all program initiatives meet or exceed state and local regulations and standards, including DCFS and Head Start.
3. Design, implement, and manage operating plans to promote program and membership growth for the YMCA, measuring and ensuring continuous progress towards strategic goals.
4. Develop and administer center budgets and grants, aligning resources to prioritize sustainability and meet financial targets.
5. Cultivate positive relationships with families, staff, licensing authorities, and community and corporate partners. Nurture a network of community and corporate partnerships to enhance the educational ecosystem of the center.
6. Attract, hire, and mentor top-tier staff and volunteers, creating an environment professionalism and dedication while optimizing operational efficiency.
7. Enhance staff development and performance through effective communication, observation and coaching, and by providing continuous professional development opportunities.
8. Maintain detailed records of staff qualifications, certifications, and training to uphold ongoing compliance and competence standards.
9. Drive and grow center enrollment and retention by focusing on new enrollments, tours, marketing, and active community engagement.
10. Lead efforts to achieve and maintain accreditation from from recognized and professional associations, ensuring the center adheres to the highest standards of quality.
11. Regularly evaluate and enhance center support materials to ensure they are current and effective, including updating staff and family handbooks and on-boarding documents, and operating procedures.
12. Oversee all administrative responsibilities including required reporting, record-keeping, supply inventory and ordering.
13. Maintain a welcoming, safe, nurturing physical environment that meets the highest standards of cleanliness and safety, inspiring confidence among families and visitors.
14. Performs other duties as assigned by the Vice President of Operations for Youth Development.
15. Serves as a member of YMCA Senior Leadership team and supports the overall objectives of the YMCA.
16. Reports damaged equipment or safety hazards promptly.
17. Ensure a strong focus on character development and diversity, equity and inclusion throughout programming.
18. Participate in Manager on Duty schedule as assigned.
19. Performs any other functions necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Rock River Valley.
Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies
Fiscal Management
Innovation
Program/Project Management
Developing Self & Others
Required Certifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field with sufficient credits in ECE to meet DCFS Qualifications for Child Care Director
- CPR, AED, First Aid, and HWC Certifications required within 90 days of hire. Additional mandatory training includes Child Abuse Prevention, Blood-borne Pathogens, and IL DCFS Mandated Reporter training.
- YMCA Multi-Team Leader certification preferred.