Launch Preschool Director — Lead a Brand-New School

TGS Holdings, LLC; Bannockburn (IL); On-site; USD 58,000 - 73,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay; quarterly bonus

Health, dental, vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Childcare tuition discount

Paid holidays

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

The Gardner School in Bannockburn, IL seeks an Executive School Director to launch and lead a brand-new preschool opening in early 2027. You will build a high-performing team, nurture family partnerships, and translate our mission into Day One operations.

You will oversee enrollment, budgeting, compliance, and community engagement while maintaining educational excellence and a positive school culture for children and families.

Qualifications

• Meet Illinois Child Care Director Licensing Standards for education and experience.
• Bachelor's degree required; Master's preferred; fields include Early Childhood Education, Childhood Development, Education Administration, Business or related field.
• Two years in licensed childcare with at least one year as Director and a track record of team management and community engagement.
• Experience with startup of childcare center is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Drive enrollment growth through tours, follow-ups, and community marketing.
• Build relationships with families and represent the school in the local community.
• Recruit, hire, train, and coach team members to foster a positive, high-performing culture.
• Lead staff development through feedback, observations, and ongoing training.
• Oversee daily school operations, including staffing, scheduling, and performance.
• Manage budgets and resources to ensure financial health and operational efficiency.
• Execute enrollment and seasonal plans to maximize capacity and classroom transitions.
• Ensure a safe, compliant, and high-quality learning environment.
• Maintain strong communication with families and continuously improve the overall experience.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Financial analysis

Organizational skills

Communication

Resource allocation

Time management

Multi-tasking

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor's degree (Required)

Master's degree (Preferred)

Early Childhood Education (Preferred)

Childhood Development (Preferred)

Education Administration (Preferred)

Business or related field (Preferred)

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

The Gardner School in Bannockburn, IL seeks an Executive School Director to launch and lead a brand-new preschool opening in early 2027. You will build a high-performing team, nurture family partnerships, and translate our mission into Day One operations.

You will oversee enrollment, budgeting, compliance, and community engagement while maintaining educational excellence and a positive school culture for children and families.