What are the responsibilities and job description for the Regional Director position at Early Years Childcare Center?
The Regional Director of Early Childhood Education serves as a senior leader responsible for the overall performance, compliance, and strategic direction of multiple Early Years centers. This role drives operational excellence, ensures consistent STARS 4 quality standards, and leads Center Directors to deliver exceptional outcomes in program quality, kindergarten readiness, and family experience.
This position requires a highly experienced leader who can balance people leadership, regulatory oversight, and business performance, while building a strong, accountable leadership team across all locations.
Key Responsibilities
1. Leadership & Accountability (40%)
- Lead, coach, and hold Center Directors accountable for performance, compliance, and culture
- Establish clear expectations, KPIs, and performance standards across all locations
- Build a strong leadership bench through coaching, development, and succession planning
- Partner with HR on hiring strategy, retention, and performance management
- Oversee onboarding, training programs, and leadership development initiatives
- Ensure all staff maintain required CPR certifications, health assessments, and training records
- Maintain oversight of new hire files and employee compliance documentation
2. Compliance, Licensing & Quality Excellence (25%)
- Own and ensure full compliance with PA DHS regulations and Keystone STARS (with a strong STARS 4 focus)
- Lead all center inspections, licensing visits, and audit readiness efforts
- Oversee tracking and renewal of all staff clearances (child abuse, FBI, criminal)
- Conduct routine audits to ensure consistency, safety, and program quality
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives across all centers
3. Financial & Operational Leadership (15%)
- Own operational performance across centers, including staffing models, ratio management, and payroll alignment
- Partner with leadership on budgeting, P&L oversight, and financial performance
- Oversee participation in grant funding and federal food programs
- Ensure efficient use of resources, materials, and center assets
4. Performance Metrics & Program Strategy (20%)
- Establish and track key metrics, including enrollment, staffing, retention, and kindergarten readiness outcomes
- Implement and analyze parent/family surveys to improve satisfaction and engagement
- Standardize reporting through monthly Director scorecards and operational checklists
- Drive program development initiatives aligned with Early Years educational standards
- Ensure centers are equipped with materials and curriculum that support school readiness
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, or related field (required)
- 15 years of progressive leadership experience in early childhood education, including multi-site management
- Proven success leading high-performing teams across multiple locations
- Deep knowledge of Pennsylvania DHS regulations and Keystone STARS requirements
- Experience with P&L management, budgeting, staffing models, and operational planning
- Strong understanding of compliance, licensing, and inspection processes
- Human Resources experience preferred
- Valid PA clearances (or ability to obtain) and driver’s license
Key Competencies
- Executive-level leadership and decision-making
- Strong accountability mindset with the ability to drive results
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
- High attention to detail and regulatory accuracy
- Strategic thinking combined with hands-on execution
- Ability to lead through change and manage multiple priorities
Work Environment & Expectations
- Regular travel between centers required
- Evenings and weekends as needed
- Maintains a professional presence and represents Early Years leadership
- Interacts regularly with families, staff, and external agencies
- Plays a critical role in ensuring safe, high-quality environments for children
Amazing Benefits:
- Healthcare Options
- Vacation Time
- Discounted Childcare
- Sign-On & Referral Bonuses
- Teacher Appreciation
- Training & Development
- Mileage Pay
- Paid Holidays
- Flexible Scheduling
- Room for Advancement
Early Years Child Development Centers is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws.
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