Executive Director - Daycare

Rippleton • Cazenovia, NY

55d • Onsite

About The Position

The Executive Director of Rippleton Center is responsible for the overall leadership, management, and strategic direction of the daycare facility. This role ensures the delivery of high-quality early childhood education and care, compliance with New York State regulations, and the cultivation of a supportive environment for children, families, and staff. Additionally, the Executive Director oversees marketing, community relations, and press engagement to promote Rippleton Center and strengthen its presence in the community.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field.
• Minimum of five years of experience in early childhood education.
• At least two years in a leadership or administrative role.
• Demonstrated experience in program development, staff supervision, and financial management.
• Familiarity with New York State child care regulations and licensing requirements.
• Understanding of the New York State Early Care and Education Core Body of Knowledge Framework.
• Strong leadership and organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Budgeting and financial oversight experience.
• Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with families, staff, and the broader community.
• Successful completion of a comprehensive background check, including fingerprinting, as mandated by New York State regulations.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and fulfillment of required training hours as specified by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services.

Nice To Haves

• A Master’s degree is preferred.
• Experience in marketing, public relations, or social media management is strongly preferred.
• Proficiency in marketing strategies, public relations, and social media management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans in alignment with the center's mission and goals.
• Oversee daily operations, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for all children.
• Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate staff, fostering professional growth and maintaining high performance standards.
• Design and implement age-appropriate curricula that promote cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development.
• Stay abreast of early childhood education trends and integrate best practices into the center's programs.
• Ensure the center adheres to all applicable New York State child care regulations, including staff qualifications and training requirements.
• Maintain accurate records and prepare for regular inspections and licensing renewals.
• Develop and manage the annual budget in collaboration with the Board of Directors.
• Oversee financial operations, including tuition collection, payroll, and expense management.
• Identify and pursue funding opportunities, grants, and partnerships to support the center's financial health.
• Cultivate strong relationships with families, addressing concerns and ensuring high levels of satisfaction.
• Promote the center within the community, establishing partnerships and representing Rippleton Center at relevant events and forums.
• Plan and host family engagement events to foster community involvement and strengthen parent relationships.
• Develop and execute a marketing strategy to enhance the center’s visibility, reputation, and enrollment.
• Oversee and manage the center’s social media presence, website updates, and digital communications.
• Create and distribute marketing materials, newsletters, and press releases to highlight Rippleton Center’s achievements, programs, and events.
• Serve as the center’s spokesperson, handling media inquiries and fostering positive relationships with local press and community organizations.
• Engage in public relations efforts to strengthen Rippleton Center’s role in the community, including networking with local businesses, schools, and organizations.
• Work with the Board of Directors on fundraising campaigns and outreach efforts.
• Develop, implement, and enforce policies and procedures that ensure the health, safety, and well-being of children and staff.
• Regularly review and update policies to reflect changes in regulations and best practices.
• Maintain continual interaction with the Board of Directors via phone, email, and in-person communication.
• Produce and deliver weekly reports to the Board on key operational and financial metrics.
• Present and report at monthly Board meetings, covering finances, staffing, facilities, legal compliance, and curriculum.
• Develop and present proposals and strategic recommendations to the Board for approval.
• Collaborate with the Board on budgeting, financial planning, and long-term sustainability strategies.

Benefits

• Salary Range: $50,000 – $70,000 annually, based on experience and qualifications.
• Performance-based incentives may be available.
• Retirement & Health Benefits: May be available.

What This Job Offers

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