ELV Executive Director

Executive Director

Visionary Growth Leader

Hybrid Role — Candidates Must Reside in the Denver Metro Area

Early Learning Ventures (ELV) is seeking an exceptional, forward-thinking, and mission-centered Executive Director to steer the organization into a bold new era of growth, innovation, and national influence. This is a rare opportunity for a dynamic leader to helm a high-impact social enterprise operating at the intersection of business scalability, technology innovation, and early childhood education.

About Early Learning Ventures (ELV)

Early Learning Ventures is a nationally recognized nonprofit dedicated to strengthening the childcare landscape by equipping providers with innovative technology and operational solutions. Founded in 2009 by the David & Laura Merage Foundation, ELV became an independent public nonprofit in 2016 and continues its work from its headquarters within the Foundation’s offices.

We partner with childcare providers across the country, most of whom are small businesses deeply committed to quality care but often limited by administrative burdens. ELV bridges this gap through Alliance CORE, our licensing-compliant child care management system, along with a suite of shared services designed to enhance quality, streamline operations, ensure regulatory compliance, and improve financial stability.

We pioneered the Child Care Shared Services model, which is now active in 20 states—and we are poised for significant expansion. The next Executive Director will lead this momentum, drive innovation and shape the future of early childhood systems nationwide.

As Executive Director, you will shape and elevate ELV’s next strategic chapter, expanding our national footprint, strengthening operational excellence, driving financial sustainability, and championing equitable access to high quality early learning for children under age five. This role is ideal for a leader who blends sharp business instincts with a deep commitment to nonprofit impact and a passion for supporting the early childhood education workforce.

Your Leadership Will Drive:

• Strategic Vision & Organizational Impact

        Lead the development and execution of ELV’s strategic direction, ensuring mission alignment and measurable results.

• National Growth & Scalability

        Accelerate aggressive expansion across the country, strengthen partnerships, and drive sustainable revenue growth.

• Operational Excellence

        Ensure the organization is positioned for long-term strength through disciplined management of finances, operations, and performance.

• Team Leadership & Culture

        Inspire, develop, and empower a high-performing team while fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and shared purpose.

• Product & Technology Innovation

        Oversee product strategy and ensure that ELV’s technology solutions evolve to meet provider needs and sector demands.

• Board Partnership & Accountability

        Serve as the primary liaison to the Board of Directors, ensuring transparency, alignment, and organizational effectiveness.

A Transformative Leadership Opportunity

The Executive Director of ELV will shape the future of early childhood education by leading an organization uniquely positioned to make a national system-wide impact. If you are a visionary leader who excels at scaling organizations, building relationships, and unlocking the potential of technology for social good—and you are passionate about improving the lives of children, families, and communities, this is a rare opportunity to lead lasting change.

Travel Requirements

Approximately 30% travel domestically.

What Does Early Learning Ventures Have to Offer You?

• Excellent benefits (medical, dental, & vision)
• Company-paid life insurance
• Company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Company-Paid Employee assistance programs
• Paid vacation days
• Paid personal days
• Paid holidays
• Sick Days

 Salary Range

$150,000-$170,000 (plus bonus)