Executive Director

The Gardner School • Cambridge, MA

1d • $70,000 - $88,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Gardner School is seeking an Executive School Director to lead its state-of-the-art facility. This role is responsible for fostering a positive educational environment, driving operational excellence, and upholding The Gardner School’s mission, vision, and values. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader who can inspire, mentor, and manage a team, while maintaining high standards of educational quality, compliance, operational efficiency, and community engagement. The Executive School Director drives the school’s financial performance, meeting key objectives through effective operational management, team leadership, and strategic planning. This role plays a critical part in shaping the school’s success and reputation.

Requirements

• Director II Qualification Required
• Bachelor’s degree required (preferred in Early Childhood Education, Education Administration, or a related field)
• Must meet state licensing requirements for Director qualifications (education and experience)
• Minimum of two years in licensed childcare with at least one year as a Director or supervising a childcare program with a track record of team management, operational oversight, and community engagement (Required)
• Strong leadership, financial, organizational, and communication skills
• Proficiency with relevant software, including Microsoft Office
• Demonstrated proficiency in budget management, financial analysis, and resource allocation
• Skilled in optimizing school operations, managing workflows, and maintaining high standards in both educational quality and compliance
• Strong understanding of licensing standards
• Capable of problem solving by assessing situations quickly and developing solutions that align with school objectives and benefit the school community
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English fluently, sufficient to communicate effectively with students, families, and staff, implement curriculum and safety procedures, and complete written reports
• Ability to manage time effectively and efficiently
• Ability to multi-task
• Regular and reliable attendance
• Engages effectively with families, Team Members, and community partners, fostering trust, collaboration, and customer satisfaction

Nice To Haves

• Experience with startup of childcare center (preferred)

Responsibilities

• Drive enrollment growth by leading tours, follow-ups, and community marketing efforts
• Build strong relationships with families and represent the school in the local community
• Recruit, hire, train, and coach team members to create a positive, high-performing culture
• Lead and support staff development through feedback, observations, and ongoing training
• Oversee daily school operations, including staffing, scheduling, and overall performance
• Manage budgets and resources to ensure financial health and operational efficiency
• Execute enrollment and seasonal plans to maximize capacity and classroom transitions
• Ensure a safe, compliant, and high-quality learning environment
• Maintain strong communication with families and continuously improve the overall experience

Benefits

• Competitive Pay: The starting salary range for this position is $70,000-$88,000 annually.
• Quarterly, performance-based bonus
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• 401(k) with company match
• Childcare tuition discount
• Paid holidays
• Professional development opportunities
• Ongoing professional development and training
• Opportunities for advancement within our growing organization
• Supportive, mission-driven culture

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive