Executive Director

Are you a passionate, driven leader who believes in the power of early education? We’re looking for an Executive Director to lead our team, inspire our staff and help shape positive, nurturing environment where children thrive.

It’s more than just a job- It’s an opportunity to impact families, empower educators, and build a stronger community.

Position Purpose

The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer and public representative of Carousel Play and Learn Center. The Executive Director provides leadership, vision, and oversight for all aspects of the Center’s operations, programs, finances, and community relationships. The position is responsible for ensuring that infants through school-age children receive high-quality care and education in a safe, nurturing, and child-centered environment. The Executive Director works in close partnership with families and the Board of Directors to advance the mission, values, and long-term sustainability of the organization.

Core Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership and Board Relations

• Collaborate with the Board of Directors to develop, implement, and evaluate a multi-year strategic plan aligned with the organization’s mission
• Provide regular, accurate, and timely reports to the Board regarding program quality, enrollment, staffing, financial performance, and organizational outcomes
• Support Board development by assisting with recruitment, orientation, and governance training

Operational and Program Oversight

• Provide leadership and oversight for day-to-day operations, including facilities, technology, scheduling, enrollment, and administration
• Ensure the learning environment is child-centered, inclusive, developmentally appropriate, and respectful of the rights and dignity of every child
• Maintain full compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including Indiana child care licensing regulations
• Promote continuous improvement in program quality and educational outcomes

Commitment to Children and Families

• Uphold the safety, well-being, and healthy development of all children as the highest organizational priority
• Ensure children are cared for in a warm, secure, and supportive environment that encourages learning, curiosity, and confidence
• Establish strong, trusting partnerships with families, recognizing them as essential collaborators in their child’s development
• Communicate regularly, openly, and respectfully with families regarding programs, policies, and individual child needs
• Address family concerns promptly and professionally, with a child-first and family-centered approach
• Promote equitable access to high-quality early learning opportunities for all families

Financial Stewardship and Fundraising

• Develop and manage the annual operating budget to ensure fiscal integrity and long-term sustainability
• Provide financial oversight, transparency, and accountability to the Board of Directors
• Lead fundraising initiatives, including grant writing, annual fundraising campaigns, and donor cultivation
• Oversee tuition administration, billing, collections, and financial aid programs

Human Resources and Staff Development

• Recruit, mentor, supervise, and evaluate a high-performing team of educators and administrative staff
• Foster a collaborative, respectful, and positive workplace culture that supports staff engagement and retention
• Promote ongoing professional development and compliance with training requirements
• Ensure compliance with all labor laws, workplace safety regulations, and personnel policies

Community Relations and Advocacy

• Serve as the primary spokesperson for the organization to families, community partners, the media, and the public
• Build collaborative relationships with local agencies, schools, and nonprofit organizations to enhance resources and services
• Advocate for children, families, and high-quality early childhood education within the community

Required Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, Nonprofit Management, Business Administration, or a related field

Experience

• Minimum of 2–3 years of senior leadership experience, preferably in education or a nonprofit organization

Credentials

• Valid Indiana Director’s Credential or willingness to obtain within a specified timeframe
• Ability to meet all required background checks and safety clearances

Financial Literacy

• Demonstrated ability to manage complex budgets and interpret financial statements

Desired Skills and Personal Attributes

• Visionary mindset with the ability to balance operational execution and long-term strategy
• Strong leadership, organizational, and decision-making skills
• Positive attitude and collaborative leadership style
• Mission-driven with a deep commitment to children and families
• Excellent communication, relationship-building, and problem-solving abilities

Benefits

• Generous paid time off and holiday scheduling
• Professional development and continuing education support
• Potential childcare discounts for employee children, subject to availability and policy

Looking for someone who thrives in a growth environment that values innovation, compassion, and professional growth—join us in shaping brighter futures for those we serve!

Pay: $40,000.00 - $55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

Education:

• Bachelor's (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $40,000 - $55,000