Lead our YMCA Early Learning Center to shape young lives, inspire educators, and build a thriving, mission-driven program! Job Description The Early Learning Center Director is responsible for the leadership, administration, and daily operations of the YMCA Early Learning Center. This position ensures the delivery of high-quality, mission-driven early childhood programming in alignment with YMCA standards and state licensing regulations. The ELC Director will demonstrate leadership, a strong knowledge of child development and developmentally appropriate practices. The Director promotes the YMCA's core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility while creating a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment that supports the social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development of all children. The Director builds strong relationships with families, staff, and the community while ensuring operational excellence and financial sustainability. Operations & Compliance Oversee enrollment management, staffing ratios, scheduling, and daily center operations. Ensure accurate record keeping, billing, subsidy documentation, and reporting. Prepare for and successfully manage state inspections and YMCA audits. Maintain a safe, clean, and welcoming facility environment. Develop and manage the center's annual operating budget. Monitor revenue, expenses, payroll, and purchasing to ensure fiscal responsibility. Support enrollment growth and retention strategies. Collaborate with association leadership on long-term strategic planning. Financial management and budget oversight experience Qualifications Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Education Administration, or related field required (Bachelor's preferred). Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in licensed early childhood settings. At least 2 years of supervisory or administrative experience. Essential Functions Mission & Program Leadership Ensure programming supports the YMCA's focus areas of Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility. Maintain compliance with all state licensing, health, and safety regulations. Oversee curriculum implementation and continuous quality improvement efforts. Model and promote the YMCA's character development values in all interactions. Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving abilities. Demonstrated leadership and team-building skills. Family & Community Engagement Cultivate strong partnerships with families through open communication and engagement opportunities. Address concerns with professionalism and a solution-oriented approach. Represent the YMCA positively within the community and build collaborative relationships with local schools, agencies, and partners. Promote YMCA membership and family engagement opportunities. Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies

YMCA COMPETENCIES

(Team Leader):

Mission Advancement:

Models and teaches the Ys values. Ensures a high level of service with a commitment to changing lives. Provides volunteers with orientation, training, development, and recognition. Cultivates relationships to support fund-raising.

Collaboration:

Champions inclusion activities, strategies, and initiatives. Builds relationships to create small communities. Empathetically listens and communicates for understanding when negotiating and dealing with conflict. Effectively tailors communications to the appropriate audience. Provides staff with feedback, coaching, guidance and support.

Operational Effectiveness:

Provides others with frameworks for making decisions. Conducts prototypes to support the launching of programs and activities. Develops plans and manages best practices through engagement of team. Effectively creates and manages budgets. Holds staff accountable for high-quality results using a formal process to measure progress.

Personal Growth:

Shares new insights. Facilitates change; models adaptability and an awareness of the impact of change. Utilizes non-threatening methods to address sensitive issues and inappropriate behavior or performance. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology. Required Certifications CPR, First Aid and AED Certification may be required Must complete Background Checks, and provide proof of a Mantoux test within upon hire.