Vice President of Child Care and Youth Services

If you are passionate about early childhood education and possess the leadership skills to drive mission-driven growth, opportunity awaits.
Job Description

We are seeking a dynamic, strategic, growth-minded leader to ensure the highest standards in early learning, child protection and safety, and youth development.  The Lakeland Hills YMCA is committed to providing exceptional childcare services that inspire and nurture the grow of children and families.  In support of our mission, we are seeking a Vice President of Youth Services who has a track record in scaling childcare, youth development programs, developing staff, driving innovation, and leading organizational growth.  As part of the Senior Leadership Team, they will work to create a strategic plan for growth while maintaining high standards of care, safety, and education.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, Business Administration, or a related field. (Master’s degree preferred)
  • 10+ years of leadership experience in childcare, education, or a related field.
  • Proven track record of scaling operations, managing budgets, and driving revenue growth.
  • Strong understanding of childcare regulations, licensing requirements, and industry best practices.
  • Exceptional leadership, communication, and team building skills.
  • Ability to think strategically, manage multiple priorities, and navigate complex operational challenges.
  • Passion for child development, early education, and creating a positive impact on families and communities.
Essential Functions

Leadership

  • Advance the mission and vision of the Lakeland Hills Family YMCA though planning, team alignment and the effective implementation of mission-based strategies.
  • Develop and execute a comprehensive growth strategy for Early Childhood Learning Center, including the expansion of existing services through the launching of new locations.
  • Provide visionary leadership to drive innovation and continuously improve program offerings.
  • Collaborate with Senior Leadership to establish long-term objectives and key performance indicators (KPI) for youth services.
  • Supervise and mentor Director of Early Childhood Learning Center to ensure high quality outcomes and consistent and effective processes.
  • Supervise Senior Program Director ensuring that Youth Development programs adhere to YMCA and state guidelines and policies to ensure child safety and youth development.
  • Assure continuity, synergy, and collaboration between ECLC and Youth programs.
  • Build and lead a high-performing team of educators through mentorship, coaching, and professional development.
  • Foster a positive and inclusive work environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion.
  • Model relationship-building skills in all interactions; develop and maintain collaborative relationships with staff, parents and caregivers, and community organizations (e.g., state childcare licensing agency, school administration) to maximize program impact and drive overall outcomes; maintains regular, clear, and concise communication within area of responsibility.

Program Development

  • Build partnerships with community organizations, schools, and businesses to enhance YMCA’s presence and impact in local communities.
  • Identify and assess new market opportunities for childcare center expansion and lead efforts to open new centers in high-demand areas.
  • Introduce and oversee new youth development programs that address the needs of children, parents, and communities.
  • Utilize data-driven insights to continuously improve curriculum, child development outcomes, and overall family satisfaction.
  • In collaboration with the CEO and other members of the senior leadership team, develop new program ideas, pilot programs, and integrate successful pilots into the youth services.
  • Assist with partnership and community development efforts, representing the Lakeland Hill Family YMCA to community leaders such as superintendents, elected officials and non-profits leaders and other YMCA’s in NJ and nationwide. 

Operational Excellence

  • Oversee the operational management of ECLC ensuring that YMCA, state, and federal regulations are met while maintaining the highest standards of care.
  • Implement systems and processes that enhance efficiency, quality, and safety throughout the service area.
  • Ensure financial sustainability by developing budgets, managing costs, and optimizing revenue streams.