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Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning · 1 week ago

Director of Operations - Central Office

Hershey, PA

Full-time

Onsite

Director/Executive

$81K/yr - $108K/yr

8+ years exp

Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning (CHS) is seeking a Director of Operations to lead and manage operational functions across the CHS Central Office and Centers. This role involves overseeing program support services, risk and safety management, and facilities management to ensure high-quality operations that support the early learning program.

CharityEducationNon ProfitPrimary Education

No H1B

Responsibilities

Work in close partnership with the Executive Director to align operational priorities with CHS’ mission and vision

Collaborate with senior leaders across departments including Programs, Finance, HR, and Family Engagement to ensure seamless coordination and execution of initiatives

Participate in leadership meetings and cross-functional work groups to promote alignment, innovation, and continuous improvement across the CHS network

Provide guidance, mentorship, and support to Center Directors and other operational staff to strengthen leadership capacity and Center-level execution

Coordination and logistics of operating areas for building, training, and opening a new Center

Develop and maintain CHS Central Office and Center-level operational policies and procedures

Conduct regular internal audits and site reviews to ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements (e.g., OCDEL, Keystone STARS, NAEYC)

Lead the design and implementation of an organization-wide risk and safety strategy and provide data and trend information to Centers and CO Leadership to inform safety strategy

Oversee incident management processes, monitor and implement mitigation strategies in partnership with the CHS Leadership Team

Conduct regular site visits to monitor operational consistency, facility maintenance, and adherence to best practices

Ensure all CHS Centers meet physical environment standards required by licensing and accreditation bodies

Oversee long-term maintenance planning, capital improvements, and vendor performance

Support operational readiness and infrastructure planning for new CHS locations

Collaborate with the Executive Director and leadership team to implement operational strategies that support program quality and scalability

Manage contracts and vendor relationships for essential support services (e.g., food service, transportation, cleaning, child supplies)

Design, oversee, and drive compliance for key program support models across the organization

Evaluate and improve service delivery based on performance data and evolving program needs

Qualification

Operations managementEarly Childhood EducationRegulatory complianceData analysisFacilities managementCommunication skillsConflict resolutionLeadership skillsTime managementProblem-solving

Required

Bachelor's degree in business administration, management, or Logistics

8 years of experience in related field (Operations preferred)

Experience operating multiple entities and ensuring collaboration across large, decentralized teams

Advanced functional knowledge of integrated ERP systems, and advanced data analysis skills

Exceptional executive functioning, organizational, and time management skills, and an action-oriented mindset

Willingness to be held accountable and receive feedback

Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills including the ability to influence, lead, educate large teams

History of achieving strong demonstrated outcomes

Proficiency in using technology, including MS Office and Internet

Ability to work effectively with all levels of management, must have an understanding of new management techniques and objectives

Ability to work independently

Ability to proactively identify problems and implement solutions

Ability to work well across silos and departments to forge strong cross-disciplinary relationships

Ability to forge strong business relationships with external vendors at the community at large

Commitment to the mission and values of CHS and MHS and demonstrated high degree of integrity as all MHS and CHS staff are considered to be role models for children

U.S. work authorization and successful completion of pre-employment background checks and clearances