Director of Operations

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 visionCollaborate with senior leaders across departments including Programs, Finance, HR, and Family Engagement to ensure seamless coordination and execution of initiativesParticipate in leadership meetings and cross-functional work groups to promote alignment, innovation, and continuous improvement across the CHS networkProvide guidance, mentorship, and support to Center Directors and other operational staff to strengthen leadership capacity and Center-level executionCoordination and logistics of operating areas for building, training, and opening a new CenterRisk, Safety, and Security Management Develop and maintain CHS Central Office and Center-level operational policies and proceduresConduct 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 strategyOversee incident management processes, monitor and implement mitigation strategies in partnership with the CHS Leadership TeamFacilities Management Conduct regular site visits to monitor operational consistency, facility maintenance, and adherence to best practicesEnsure all CHS Centers meet physical environment standards required by licensing and accreditation bodiesOversee long-term maintenance planning, capital improvements, and vendor performanceSupport 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 scalabilityManage 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 organizationEvaluate and improve service delivery based on performance data and evolving program needsQualifications:Bachelor's degree in business administration, management, or Logistics required. Master's Degree - MS, MBA preferred8 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 preferredPrevious experience in new venture or similar entrepreneurial, high-growth setting preferredExperience operating multiple entities and ensuring collaboration across large, decentralized teamsAdvanced functional knowledge of integrated ERP systems, and advanced data analysis skillsExceptional executive functioning, organizational, and time management skills, and an action- oriented mindsetWillingness to be held accountable and receive feedbackExceptional communication and interpersonal skills including the ability to influence, lead, educate large teamsHistory of achieving strong demonstrated outcomesProficiency in using technology, including MS Office and InternetAbility to work effectively with all levels of management, must have an understanding of new management techniques and objectivesAbility to work independentlyAbility to proactively identify problems and implement solutionsAbility 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 largeCommitment 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 childrenU.S. work authorization and successful completion of pre-employment background checks and clearances

Created: 2025-08-01