Rippleton Inc. Executive Director - Daycare Cazenovia, NY · Full time Company website

Apply for Executive Director - Daycare

RIPPLETON CENTER is dedicated to providing the Cazenovia, NY community and beyond with a safe and nurturing environment for learning, exploration, play, and celebration. We believe that children of all ages benefit from a place where they feel welcomed. And that a flourishing community needs a space where families can connect and support each other.

TIME TO LEARN:
Our curriculum blends learning and play, and encourages exploration. Your child will have fun and gain confidence while building critical skills.

SPACE TO SCAMPER:
We encourage kids to get outside and explore. With 20 acres and 2 miles of trails, your child will have plenty of fresh air and space to safely roam.

ROOM TO GROW:
With programming for infants to after school care, our students will connect with all ages, helping them foster empathy, leadership, and kindness toward others.

A PASSIONATE TEAM & A GREAT PLACE TO WORK:
As a nonprofit organization led by a passionate and dedicated board of volunteers, Rippleton Center takes pride in offering all employees best-possible compensation, benefits, training, and career-planning support. Whether you're just starting your career or you have many years of experience we seek energetic, enthusiastic, passionate professionals who love working with kids. Our ideal teammate is one who is excited to bring fresh ideas but is also comfortable playing a collaborative role within an established organization. If this sounds like you, we can't wait to meet you. If you don't see an open role for your ideal position but you're interested in joining the team at Rippleton Center, we encourage you to apply anyway. We will definitely review your cover letter and application -- we're always looking for great teammates.

Job Title: Executive Director

Location: Rippleton Center, New York State

Reports To: Board of Directors

Position Summary:

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.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Leadership and Management:

• 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.

2. Program Development:

• 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.

3. Regulatory Compliance:

• 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.

4. Financial Management:

• 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.

5. Family and Community Engagement:

• 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.

6. Marketing, Press, and Community Relations:

• 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.

7. Policy Development and Implementation:

• 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.

8. Board of Directors Relationship:

• 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. Additional meetings may be required as needed.
• 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.

Qualifications:

Educational Background:

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field. A Master’s degree is preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum of five years of experience in early childhood education, with at least two years in a leadership or administrative role.
• Demonstrated experience in program development, staff supervision, and financial management.
• Experience in marketing, public relations, or social media management is strongly preferred.

Regulatory Knowledge:

• 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.

Skills and Abilities:

• Strong leadership and organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in marketing strategies, public relations, and social media management.
• Budgeting and financial oversight experience.
• Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with families, staff, and the broader community.

Additional Requirements:

• 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.

Compensation and Benefits:

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

Application Process:

Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume, cover letter, and references to [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Rippleton Center is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.