Senior Area Director, Multi-School Ops (50–75% Travel)

The Gardner School; Tennessee; Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The Gardner School is seeking an Area Manager to oversee operations and performance across multiple locations in the Nashville area. This role reports to the Regional Director and requires 50–75% travel in the assigned area.

Responsibilities include leading Executive School Directors, ensuring educational quality, regulatory compliance, financial performance, and enrollment goals, while delivering exceptional family experiences.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Business Administration, Organizational Leadership, or a related field.
• Minimum of five years of progressive leadership experience within early childhood education.
• Experience leading multiple locations, schools, or operational teams.
• Strong knowledge of early childhood education regulations and licensing requirements.
• Experience with budgeting, financial analysis, labor management, enrollment, and performance accountability.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop Executive School Directors and establish clear expectations with ongoing feedback.
• Ensure operational and educational excellence across assigned schools and maintain regulatory compliance.
• Develop and manage area budgets while driving revenue, profitability, and cost targets.
• Deliver high-quality family and community experiences and resolve escalated concerns.
• Partner with Regional Director to identify growth opportunities and support school openings or transitions.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Data analysis

Strategic planning

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in ECE/Business/Leadership

Job description

The Gardner School is seeking an Area Manager to oversee operations and performance across multiple locations in the Nashville area. This role reports to the Regional Director and requires 50–75% travel in the assigned area.

Responsibilities include leading Executive School Directors, ensuring educational quality, regulatory compliance, financial performance, and enrollment goals, while delivering exceptional family experiences.