Executive Director

Job Summary The Executive Director of the Head Start and Early Head Start program provides visionary leadership and strategic direction to ensure the program delivers high-quality early childhood education, family support, and health services support to low-income children and their families. The Executive Director is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations, supervising management staff, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, and working closely with the Board of Directors, community partners, and funding agencies to secure resources and maintain the sustainability of the program.

Competency Area Competencies/Responsibilities Key Behaviors Program Management & Oversight Oversee the overall management of Head Start and Early Head Start operations, ensuring that all services—education, health, family engagement, and nutrition—are delivered effectively and meet Head Start Performance  conjunction with Management Staff, develop, implement, and monitor program goals, objectives, and activities to ensure alignment with the mission and federal and state regulations.

Coordinate and ensure compliance with the Head Start Performance Standards, Child and Adult Care Food Program Standards and applicable licensing requirements.

Supervise the program’s staff, providing leadership, training, and support to ensure optimal performance and professional development.

Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the program through data collection, outcome measurements, and continuous improvement processes.

Demonstrates a commitment to Head Start’s mission by ensuring high-quality services and compliance with regulatory requirements.

Provides clear, consistent leadership to staff, fostering a culture of teamwork, accountability, and excellence.

Uses data and feedback to drive continuous improvement and ensure service quality.

Leadership & Staff Management Lead, mentor, and motivate a diverse team of educators, family service workers, and support staff, ensuring that staff are well-trained, supported, and retained.

Ensure recruitment, hiring, training, and evaluation processes for all program staff are in compliance.

Foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative organizational culture that promotes professional development and supports staff well-being.

Conduct performance evaluations, set professional development goals, and provide coaching to ensure staff meet performance expectations.

Develop succession planning to ensure that the program has a robust pipeline of future leaders.

Actively listens and communicates with staff, providing clear direction and support.

Empowers staff through mentorship and coaching, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.

Leads by example, promoting a culture of respect, inclusion, and accountability.

Encourages staff development and career growth by identifying and addressing learning opportunities.

Fiscal Management & Fund Development Oversee the program’s budget, ensuring that financial resources are utilized effectively and in compliance with Head Start regulations.

Ensure accurate financial reporting, including the preparation of regular reports for the Board of Directors, funders, and other stakeholders.

Lead the development and submission of grant proposals and funding applications to secure program funding.

Develop and maintain strong relationships with funding agencies, local government, and philanthropic organizations.

Monitor and manage contracts and service agreements with external partners and subcontractors.

Demonstrates a strong understanding of budgeting, financial management, and compliance with funding requirements.

Actively seeks new funding opportunities and resources to sustain and expand the program.

Exhibits…