Head Start Programs Director - Strategy, Growth & Impact

You Thrive Florida; Brooksville (FL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

You Thrive Florida seeks a senior leader to guide Head Start, Early Head Start, and related early learning programs across Hernando, Sumter, and Volusia counties. The role partners with the CAO and Governing Board to align strategic priorities with community needs and secure sustainable funding.

You will drive program planning, compliance, and continuous quality improvement, while supervising managers and staff to ensure high-quality instruction and positive outcomes for children and families.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in education, public administration, or related field.
• Master’s degree preferred for senior leadership.
• Experience with Head Start programs and grant management is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for Head Start, Early Head Start, and related programs.
• Lead strategic planning, grant writing, and budget development with fiscal oversight.
• Ensure compliance with federal/state requirements and program standards.
• Direct program operations through supervisors and staff, promoting a collaborative culture.
• Oversee data-informed instructional improvement and professional development.
• Collaborate with CAO, Governing Board, and community partners to sustain funding and quality.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Grant writing

Budget development

Organizational planning

Data-informed decision making

Staff development

Community partnerships

Shared governance

Communication

Change management

Continuous quality improvement

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Master’s degree preferred

Job description

You Thrive Florida seeks a senior leader to guide Head Start, Early Head Start, and related early learning programs across Hernando, Sumter, and Volusia counties. The role partners with the CAO and Governing Board to align strategic priorities with community needs and secure sustainable funding.

You will drive program planning, compliance, and continuous quality improvement, while supervising managers and staff to ensure high-quality instruction and positive outcomes for children and families.