Executive Director

Fuelingbrains; Calgary; On-site; CAD 105,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking an Executive Director to provide strategic leadership and operational oversight across multiple academies. This full-time role involves driving operational excellence and financial sustainability while building leadership capacity within the organization. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in education, with a focus on early childhood programs, and a proven track record in managing complex operations. If you are passionate about fostering a collaborative workplace culture and ensuring high academic standards, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• 5-7 years of leadership experience in education or child-focused organizations.
• Proven track record in operational management and strategic planning.

Responsibilities

• Oversee operations of multiple academies ensuring compliance and quality assurance.
• Develop strategic plans and manage enrollment targets.

Skills

Leadership and team management

Strategic thinking

Financial management

Stakeholder engagement

Excellent communication skills

Technological proficiency

Education

Master’s degree in Education

Certification in early childhood education

Job description

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Overview

The Executive Director provides strategic leadership and operational oversight across multiple academies. This role ensures alignment with the organization’s mission and goals, driving operational excellence, financial sustainability, and a collaborative workplace culture. The Executive Director also plays a critical role in building leadership capacity within the Academy cluster, ensuring a strong succession pipeline, and fostering a culture of continued professional growth.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

Leadership and Strategic Planning:

• Develop and implement strategic plans that align with the organization's mission and long-term goals.
• Lead Center Directors in driving key performance indicators (KPIs) such as enrollment growth, academic success, and employee retention.
• Build and maintain a succession pipeline for pivotal roles across the Academy cluster to ensure organizational continuity and leadership development.

Operational Management

• Oversee day-to-day operations to ensure smooth functioning of multiple academies.
• Manage enrollment targets and collaborate with marketing teams to meet recruitment goals.
• Develop and monitor operational budgets, ensuring cost control and financial performance.
• Demonstrate familiarity and comfort with systems and technology across multiple platforms to support operational efficiency and data-driven decision-making.

Compliance And Quality Assurance

• Ensure all academies comply with Alberta ECE standards, health, licensing, and all required industry and provincial regulations.
• Monitor health, safety, and well-being protocols for staff and students.
• Implement quality control processes to maintain high academic and operational standards.
• Manage and ensure timely, accurate reporting to the Government of Alberta for licensing, subsidy programs, and related compliance needs.

Staff Leadership And Development

• Provide mentorship, coaching, and professional development opportunities to Center Directors and senior staff to build leadership capacity.
• Collaborate with HR to identify staffing needs, oversee recruitment and onboarding, and promote professional development programs.
• Support Center Directors in managing staff and parental interactions, including proactive conflict resolution strategies that foster trust, professionalism, and community partnerships.

Community Engagement

• Build and maintain relationships with parents, community partners, and stakeholders.
• Represent the organization at public forums and community events to enhance visibility and reputation.
• Work collaboratively with families to address and resolve billing-related concerns, ensuring a positive experience and operational accuracy.

Preferred Skills And Qualifications

• Education: Master’s degree in Education, Business Administration, or a related field. Certification or training in early childhood education, leadership, or non-profit management is a plus.
• Experience: 5-7 years of leadership experience in education, early childhood programs, or child-focused organizations. Proven track record in operational management, financial oversight, and strategic planning. Experience working with Alberta’s childcare or education system and knowledge of provincial regulations and licensing requirements.
• Key Skills: Leadership and team management, strategic thinking, financial management, stakeholder engagement, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and technological proficiency.

Work Environment Requirements

• Full-time role with flexibility for early mornings or late evenings as needed.
• Travel between academies required at least 4 days each week.
• High level of responsibility and interaction with children, staff, and parents.

Additional Requirements

• ECE Certification Level
• Criminal Record Check: Successful completion of a criminal record check, including a vulnerable sector search.
• First Aid Certification: Valid Child Care First Aid and CPR or willingness to obtain within the first three months of employment.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to engage in active play and lift up to 40 lbs.

The Pay Range For This Role Is

105,000 - 125,000 CAD per year (Calgary)