Under the direction of the Executive Director of Youth Development the Director of Early Childhood Programs, in cooperation with other staff, is responsible for assisting the Executive Director of Youth Development with the administration and operation of the early childhood centers and branch child watch programs. Responsibilities include leadership for the development of high quality early learning initiatives, while providing opportunities to shape values and encourage lifelong learning for children. The incumbent must embrace the Association’s matrix management system and demonstrate collaborative philosophy. This position will supervise the Assistant Director (s) of Early Childhood Programs. This position supports the work of the YMCA, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
- Ensures early childhood programs and services meet community needs to include supervising existing program activities, establishing new program activities, and expanding the program within the community as needed. Assists in the marketing and distribution of program information.
- Recruits and hires diverse staff and volunteer teams across multiple dimensions of diversity. Onboards and develops them for success. Develops continuing education schedule which includes options relevant to the specific service area (early childhood and child watch).
- Models relationship-building skills in all interactions. Develops and maintains collaborative relationships with community organizations and within each branch location. Maintains regular, clear, and concise communication within area of responsibility.
- Manages early childhood and child watch programs, including developing and monitoring the program budget to meet fiscal objectives; compiling program statistics to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of and participation in program.
- Assures compliance with state and local regulations as they relate to program areas. Ensures that program standards are met and safety procedures followed. Develops and maintains relationships with state childcare licensing agencies.
- Provides leadership and support to the annual fundraising campaign and volunteer committees/boards as assigned.
- YMCA Team Leader certification preferred.
- One to two years related experience preferred.
- Minimum age of 21.
- Complete all online classes within seven (7) days of hire
- Complete certifications in: First Aid / CPR / AED within thirty (30) days of hire
- Current Fingerprint clearance card or the ability to apply for one within seven (7) days of hire
- Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community.
- Understands the YMCA is a public accommodation committed to inclusion and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
- Bilingual Preferred