Assistant Executive Director

Summary

The Journey Together PreK Assistant Executive Director supports the overall leadership, administration, and daily operations of the center while preparing to assume the role of Executive Director within one year. This position works closely with the Executive Director to gain hands-on experience in program oversight, staff management, family engagement, budgeting, and compliance. The ideal candidate is a motivated leader with strong organizational skills, a collaborative mindset, and a long-term commitment to center leadership.

Leadership Pathway

This is a succession-focused role. With demonstrated performance, leadership growth, and successful completion of training goals, the Assistant Executive Director is expected to transition into the Executive Director position after approximately one year.

Duties

Administrative & Operational Support

• Assist the Executive Director with day-to-day center operations
• Support enrollment management, attendance tracking, and recordkeeping
• Help ensure compliance with licensing regulations, policies, and procedures
• Participate in budget planning, purchasing, and financial monitoring
• Assist with scheduling, reporting, and operational planning

Staff Leadership & Development

• Support supervision, onboarding, and training of center staff
• Model professional conduct and positive leadership practices
• Assist with staff meetings, evaluations, and professional development plans
• Step into leadership coverage as needed in the Executive Director’s absence

Program & Quality Oversight

• Support implementation and evaluation of educational and enrichment programs
• Monitor classroom environments to ensure quality, safety, and consistency
• Assist in maintaining accreditation or quality rating standards (if applicable)

Family & Community Engagement

• Serve as a point of contact for families, addressing concerns professionally
• Support family communication, events, and engagement initiatives
• Represent the center positively within the community

Executive Director Preparation

• Participate in leadership training, mentoring, and strategic planning
• Gradually assume increased responsibility in decision-making
• Learn all aspects of Executive Director duties to ensure a smooth transition

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Education, Business Administration, Human Services, or a related field (Master’s preferred or in progress)
• Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in a leadership or supervisory role (child care, education, or nonprofit preferred)
• Strong knowledge of child care operations, licensing regulations, and best practices
• Demonstrated leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• CPR/First Aid certification and background clearance (or willingness to obtain)
• Release of Information as required by licensing
• Medical Record as required by licensing

Nice To Haves

Visionary and growth-oriented mindset

Professional, dependable, and ethical

Strong interpersonal and conflict-resolution skills

Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines

Comfortable making decisions and leading teams

Benefits

Health Insurance

Retirement Benefits

PTO for sick and holidays

Successful performance in this role may result in promotion to Executive Director within one year, including expanded authority, compensation adjustment, and full operational oversight of the center.