Executive Director, Early Childhood — Growth & Partnerships

Child Development Schools; Ann Arbor (MI); On-site; USD 85,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Child Development Schools in Ann Arbor, MI, seeks an Executive Director to drive enrollment growth, financial results, educational excellence, staffing, licensing compliance, and partnerships with the University of Michigan Campus.

This leader will balance instructional quality with operating efficiency, oversee P&L, develop strategic plans, recruit top talent, and ensure a high-quality customer experience across campus operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree (or higher) in a relevant field and state licensing requirements.
• 7–10 years of progressive leadership experience in early childhood education.
• 3–5 years leading a licensed childcare center or school.
• Demonstrated responsibility for financial performance and P&L management.
• Proven success improving enrollment and retention.

Responsibilities

• Own overall school performance including revenue, profitability, enrollment, labor efficiency, and operating expenses.
• Analyze P&L statements and identify operational drivers impacting financial performance.
• Develop annual business plans, enrollment strategies, staffing forecasts, and growth initiatives.
• Make sound operational decisions balancing educational quality, financial performance, and customer experience.
• Identify new opportunities to expand enrollment, strengthen partnerships, and improve operational efficiency.
• Lead local marketing initiatives and community outreach.
• Recruit, hire, onboard, develop, and retain top talent.
• Conduct performance evaluations and succession planning.
• Foster accountability, engagement, and continuous learning.

Skills

Educational Leadership

P&L management

Enrollment management

Staff development

Stakeholder partnerships

Education

Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education / Business Administration / Education / Organizational Leadership

Master's degree in Education / MBA / Organizational Leadership

Job description

Child Development Schools in Ann Arbor, MI, seeks an Executive Director to drive enrollment growth, financial results, educational excellence, staffing, licensing compliance, and partnerships with the University of Michigan Campus.

This leader will balance instructional quality with operating efficiency, oversee P&L, develop strategic plans, recruit top talent, and ensure a high-quality customer experience across campus operations.