Executive Director, Y Preschool

YMCA Central Maryland•Baltimore, MD

About The Position

The Executive Director, Preschool provides strategic and operational leadership for the Y’s consumer-based Preschool product across all locations. This role is responsible for driving program excellence, regulatory compliance, fiscal sustainability, enrollment growth, and talent development. The Executive Director leads and develops Preschool Directors and site leadership teams to ensure consistent delivery of high-quality, developmentally appropriate early childhood programming aligned with Y standards, Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) requirements, and Office of Child Care (OCC) regulations. This leader cultivates strong partnerships with schools, the OCC, and community organizations to strengthen the Y’s early learning presence and expand access for families. The Executive Director serves as the primary escalation point for complex operational, regulatory, associates, and customer service matters and ensures the Preschool product is executed with excellence, fidelity, and financial discipline.

Requirements

Demonstrated expertise in MSDE and OCC child care regulations and early childhood best practices.
Strong financial acumen including budget development, implementation, and P&L management.
Proven ability to lead multi-site operations and manage complex personnel and customer service challenges.
Experience conducting audits, analyzing data, and driving continuous improvement.
Skilled in adult learning facilitation and leadership development.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) and web-based systems.
Ability to make sound decisions that ensure safety, compliance, and program integrity.
Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field required (Master’s preferred).
Minimum of ten (10) years of progressive leadership experience in child care or early childhood management.
Prior classroom teaching experience and strong knowledge of child development for children ages 0–5

Responsibilities

Provide vision and direction for the Y Preschool product to ensure high-quality, consistent programming across all sites.
Ensure full compliance with OCC licensing standards, MSDE requirements (where applicable), and Y quality expectations.
Maintain accreditation standards and ensure readiness for audits, inspections, and monitoring visits.
Conduct classroom observations and program audits to assess quality, compliance, and instructional effectiveness.
Lead monthly leadership meetings, one-on-one coaching sessions, and performance conferences with Preschool Directors.
Oversee the implementation of curriculum and enrichment programs, including STAY & PLAY initiatives.
Develop and manage the overall Preschool budget; meet or exceed revenue, enrollment, and margin targets.
Monitor financial performance including P&L oversight, forecasting, and expense management.
Lead recruitment and retention strategies to maintain full enrollment across all preschool classrooms.
Identify growth opportunities and expansion strategies to strengthen the Preschool product portfolio.
Recruit, supervise, coach, and retain high-performing Preschool Directors.
Provide regular performance feedback and professional development opportunities.
Facilitate training and continuing education aligned with OCC requirements and Y expectations.
Promote a culture of accountability, excellence, and mission-driven service.
Ensure all licensing standards are met, including accurate records management of associate and children’s files.
Address escalated customer concerns involving families, associates, vendors, and partners.
Enforce policies and procedures to maintain the safety and well-being of children and associates.
Conduct data analysis and audits to evaluate compliance, program effectiveness, and operational performance.
Build and strengthen partnerships with local schools, OCC representatives, and community organizations.
Represent the Y Preschool product at community meetings, events, and professional forums.
Support special events, fundraising efforts, and family engagement initiatives.