Center Director - Columbus

Clever Bee Academy; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance

Paid Time Off

Childcare Tuition Assistance

Job summary

Clever Bee Academy in Columbus, Ohio is seeking an experienced Center Director to lead operations in a high-quality early learning environment. The role emphasizes relationship building with families and staff, ensuring compliance with standards, and developing processes for efficiency. A Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field is required, along with 3–5 years of supervisory experience. The position offers benefits like medical insurance and paid time off.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of documented supervisory or leadership experience.
• Ability to pass a criminal background check.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily center operations to ensure consistency and compliance with standards.
• Lead and support staff through communication and coaching.
• Foster relationships with families for a welcoming experience.

Skills

Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Leadership and team management

Organizational and process management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field

Job description

About the Role

Clever Bee Academy is growing, and we’re looking for an experienced, mission-driven Center Director to lead day-to-day operations and support a high-quality early learning environment. In this role, you’ll guide and develop staff, partner with families, and ensure the center operates smoothly, safely, and in compliance. This is a leadership position for someone who values strong relationships, thoughtful processes, and excellence in early childhood education.

What You’ll Do

• Oversee daily center operations to ensure consistency, quality, and compliance with licensing standards
• Lead, motivate, and support staff through clear communication, coaching, and accountability
• Foster strong relationships with families by ensuring a welcoming, responsive, and respectful experience
• Develop and implement policies and procedures that improve efficiency and effectiveness
• Monitor staffing, performance, and workflows to ensure smooth center operations
• Maintain accurate records, reports, and documentation
• Identify and address challenges proactively to support staff, children, and families

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field (child development, special education, elementary education, or human services with 30 ECE credits)
• 3–5 years of documented supervisory or leadership experience
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, manage processes, and stay organized
• Ability to work independently while collaborating closely with a leadership team
• Ability to pass a criminal background check
• Must be authorized to work in the United States; sponsorship is not available for this position

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Business Administration or a related field
• 3–5 years of experience working in early childhood education settings
• Experience working with diverse children, families, and teams
• Budget management or financial oversight experience
• Bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply

Skills That Help You Succeed

• Clear, confident communicator who builds trust with staff and families
• Organized, process-oriented, and solution-focused
• Strong leadership presence with the ability to motivate and support teams
• Comfortable managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Experience with budgeting, planning, or operational management

Pay & Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
• Paid Time Off
• Employee Assistance Program
• Childcare Tuition Assistance

Why You’ll Love Clever Bee Academy

• Supportive leadership that values collaboration and growth
• A mission-driven organization focused on children, families, and educators
• Opportunities to make a meaningful impact in your community
• A team environment where high standards and support go hand in hand

Clever Bee Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status under applicable law.