Executive Director

The Gardner School • Cambridge, MA

20d • 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 Executive School Director is a hands-on leader who inspires, mentors, and manages a team, while maintaining high standards of educational quality, compliance, operational efficiency, and community engagement. This role also drives the school’s financial performance and upholds a positive brand image within the community.

Requirements

• 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
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English fluently
• 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: Manager