The Director of Operations at Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning (CHS) is responsible for leading and managing operational functions across the CHS Central Office and Centers to ensure high-quality operations that directly support the CHS early learning program. Key areas of oversight include Program Support Services (food, transportation, cleaning, and child & family supports), Risk, Safety, and Security, and Facilities Management. The Director will develop and implement policies and procedures that promote operational excellence, staff accountability, regulatory compliance, and a safe, supportive environment for children and staff.

The ideal candidate is an experienced Operations leader with strong skills in planning, communication, conflict resolution, and compliance. Experience in Early Childhood Education or a related field is preferred. The salary range for this position is $ 81,072 to $108,231 per year, based on expertise.

Responsibilities: 

Leadership & Collaboration 

• Work in close partnership with the Executive Director to align operational priorities with CHS' mission and vision
• Collaborate with senior leaders across departments including Programs, Finance, HR, and Family Engagement to ensure seamless coordination and execution of initiatives
• Participate in leadership meetings and cross-functional work groups to promote alignment, innovation, and continuous improvement across the CHS network
• Provide guidance, mentorship, and support to Center Directors and other operational staff to strengthen leadership capacity and Center-level execution
• Coordination and logistics of operating areas for building, training, and opening a new Center

Risk, Safety, and Security Management 

• Develop and maintain CHS Central Office and Center-level operational policies and procedures
• Conduct regular internal audits and site reviews to ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements (e.g., OCDEL, Keystone STARS, NAEYC)
• Lead the design and implementation of an organization-wide risk and safety strategy and provide data and trend information to Centers and CO Leadership to inform safety strategy
• Oversee incident management processes, monitor and implement mitigation strategies in partnership with the CHS Leadership Team

Facilities Management 

• Conduct regular site visits to monitor operational consistency, facility maintenance, and adherence to best practices
• Ensure all CHS Centers meet physical environment standards required by licensing and accreditation bodies
• Oversee long-term maintenance planning, capital improvements, and vendor performance
• Support operational readiness and infrastructure planning for new CHS locations 

Program Support Services 

• Collaborate with the Executive Director and leadership team to implement operational strategies that support program quality and scalability
• Manage contracts and vendor relationships for essential support services (e.g., food service, transportation, cleaning, child supplies)
• Design, oversee, and drive compliance for key program support models across the organization
• Evaluate and improve service delivery based on performance data and evolving program needs

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, management, or Logistics required. Master's Degree - MS, MBA preferred
• 8 years of experience in related field (Operations preferred)
• 2+ years of experience working in the Early Childhood space, and closely with OCDEL, Keystone STARS, and NAEYC quality standards preferred
• Previous experience in new venture or similar entrepreneurial, high-growth setting preferred
• Experience operating multiple entities and ensuring collaboration across large, decentralized teams
• Advanced functional knowledge of integrated ERP systems, and advanced data analysis skills
• Exceptional executive functioning, organizational, and time management skills, and an action- oriented mindset
• Willingness to be held accountable and receive feedback
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills including the ability to influence, lead, educate large teams
• History of achieving strong demonstrated outcomes
• Proficiency in using technology, including MS Office and Internet
• Ability to work effectively with all levels of management, must have an understanding of new management techniques and objectives
• Ability to work independently
• Ability to proactively identify problems and implement solutions
• Ability to work well across silos and departments to forge strong cross-disciplinary relationships 
• Ability to forge strong business relationships with external vendors at the community at large
• Commitment to the mission and values of CHS and MHS and demonstrated high degree of integrity as all MHS and CHS staff are considered to be role models for children
• U.S. work authorization and successful completion of pre-employment background checks and clearances