Benodjenh Center Manager

The Benodjenh Center Manager serves as the senior operational leader of the Benodjenh Center and is responsible for the overall management, administration, and performance of early childhood education programs, including Head Start, Early Head Start, and Child Care services. This position provides strategic direction and day-to-day oversight of program operations, staff supervision, curriculum implementation, family engagement, fiscal management, regulatory compliance, and addressing complaints.

The Benodjenh Center Manager ensures that all programs operate in accordance with applicable federal, state, Tribal, and funding-agency requirements while delivering high-quality, culturally responsive early childhood education and child care services. This role functions as both a program leader and administrator, overseeing staff development, parent engagement, community partnerships, and continuous program improvement. The position requires strong leadership, decision‑making, and organizational skills, as well as the ability to manage complex regulatory environments and serve as a liaison to Tribal leadership, Policy Council, funding agencies, and community stakeholders.

• Bachelor’s degree required, with emphasis in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Education, Human Services, or a related field preferred
• Minimum five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in early childhood education, human services, or program administration
• Minimum five (5) years of experience in a supervisory or management role
• Demonstrated experience overseeing Head Start, Early Head Start, Child Care, or similar federally or state-funded programs preferred
• Knowledge of applicable federal, state, Tribal, and funding‑agency regulations governing early childhood programs
• Current CPR and First Aid certification or ability to obtain within a specified timeframe
• Valid, unrestricted Michigan Driver’s License and ability to be insured under the GTB insurance carrier

• Provide overall leadership, planning, and management of the Benodjenh Center, including Head Start, Early Head Start, and Child Care programs.
• Direct and oversee daily program operations to ensure delivery of safe, high‑quality, developmentally appropriate early childhood services.
• Apply professional knowledge of child development principles to guide curriculum implementation and age‑appropriate activities supporting social, emotional, physical, cognitive, and creative development.
• Ensure full compliance with all applicable federal, state, Tribal, and funding‑agency regulations, including Head Start Performance Standards and Child Care licensing requirements.
• Interpret statutes, regulations, and grant requirements and translate them into effective policies, procedures, and operational practices.
• Review, develop, and recommend policies, procedures, and operational changes to maintain compliance and program effectiveness.
• Develop and implement program goals, objectives, and action plans consistent with Tribal priorities, Policy Council, and community needs with continuous quality improvement of services.
• Conduct and coordinate community needs assessments to inform program planning and service delivery.
• Evaluate program effectiveness and recommend modifications, expansion, or termination of services based on outcomes and resource availability with continuous quality improvement of services and management
• Learn and appreciate Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians culture and values and ensure that program aligns with the culture…