District Operations Leader

The Gardner School; Franklin (TN); On-site; USD 95,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

The Gardner School in Franklin, TN is seeking a District Support Director to provide district-wide operational leadership across multiple schools. Reporting to the District Manager, you will cover leadership gaps, coordinate staffing, align with standards, and support enrollment and family experience.

This role combines hands-on district support with leadership development, partnering with Executive School Directors to build operational capabilities and readiness for future executive roles while

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, Business, or related field preferred.
• Director Qualified in the relevant state/market.
• Leadership experience in an early childhood environment required.
• Demonstrated ability to lead with professionalism, flexibility, and strong communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to adapt quickly to changing operational and school needs.
• Ability to travel regularly between schools within the district.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership coverage and operational support across district schools.
• Support schools during leadership transitions, leaves, staffing gaps, enrollment growth, onboarding periods, or other operational needs.
• Partner with Executive School Directors and school leadership teams to support day-to-day school operations and maintain alignment with The Gardner School standards and expectations.
• Help ensure consistency in operational execution, family experience, and leadership practices across district schools.
• Support enrollment-related activities, including tours, family follow-up, lead management, and execution of school enrollment priorities.
• Assist with budgeting awareness and financial support activities, including labor management, supply oversight, expense awareness, and follow-through on district or school financial priorities.
• Support compliance with licensing requirements, health and safety standards, and company policies.
• Support implementation and follow-through of company initiatives, operational priorities, district initiatives and best practices across schools.

Skills

Leadership experience

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Relationship building

Flexibility

Education

Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, Business, or related field

Job description

The Gardner School in Franklin, TN is seeking a District Support Director to provide district-wide operational leadership across multiple schools. Reporting to the District Manager, you will cover leadership gaps, coordinate staffing, align with standards, and support enrollment and family experience.

This role combines hands-on district support with leadership development, partnering with Executive School Directors to build operational capabilities and readiness for future executive roles while