EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR JOB DESCRIPTION

Our Mission

Children at play are the cornerstone of our center of excellence. Our teachers provide a vibrant learning

environment that nurtures curiosity and bravery through hands-on learning. Our school thrives with the

support of engaged parent volunteers and alumni. Together we provide an enduring foundation for

lifelong learning.

About The Children’s Center

The Children’s Center (TCC), located in beautiful Portland, Maine is a NAEYC-accredited childcare and

early education center serving 100 families. Now in its 47th year, TCC provides progressive, high-quality

childcare and early education across infant, toddler, preschool, and pre-kindergarten programs on two

distinct Portland campuses.

TCC asks teachers to be intense observers of children’s play and to create curriculum using The Project

Approach and Reggio Emilia inspired practices. The sights and sounds of the emergent curriculum at TCC

reflect the joy, curiosity, and imagination children bring to all kinds of pursuits, both in our indoor

classrooms and our certified outdoor learning space. Our center culture, pedagogy, and community are

grounded in the values of inclusion, growth mindset, relationships, and excellence.

Since 2000, TCC has operated as a non-profit organization and is overseen by a Board of Directors that is

composed of parents and community members. In addition to NAEYC-accreditation, the center is

licensed by the Maine DHHS and DOE and maintains 5 stars from the Quality of Maine Rising Stars

program. TCC is proud to be a leader in the early education community in Southern Maine.

Executive Director Position Summary:

The Executive Director (ED) is the key leadership position responsible for the overall strategic,

operational, and financial management of TCC. This individual will oversee program development, staff

management, community engagement, and revenue generation to ensure the TCC fulfills its mission. The

ED reports to the Board of Directors and works collaboratively with families, educators, and stakeholders

to create a nurturing and innovative learning environment.

This is a full-time, in-person, role. Some flexibility may be required for evening or weekend events,

depending on operational needs. Ideal start date is between June-July of 2025.

Key Responsibilities:

(1) Leadership & Strategy

● Develop and execute a strategic vision aligned with the center’s mission, vision, values and

best practices in early childhood education.

● Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of educators and administrative staff, fostering a positive

and professional work environment and culture.

● Collaborate with the Board of Directors on special projects and general management to

foster a thriving and sustainable center.

● Ensure compliance with all licensing, accreditation, and regulatory requirements, including

NAEYC amongst others.

● Advocate for early childhood education within the community and with policymakers.

(2) Programmatic & Operational Excellence

● Oversee curriculum implementation, ensuring it meets or exceeds standards for early

childhood education excellence.

● Maintain a safe, inclusive, and high-quality learning environment for children and staff.

● Monitor program effectiveness and implement continuous improvement initiatives.

● Establish policies and procedures that support staff, children, and families in alignment with

the center’s mission, vision, and values.

(3) Financial Management & Fundraising

● Develop and manage the annual budget in collaboration with the Board of Directors,

Treasurer, and finance committee.

● Identify funding opportunities, including grants, individual donors, and corporate

sponsorships, to support program sustainability.

● Oversee financial reporting, ensuring transparency and accountability.

● Cultivate relationships with donors and funding organizations to strengthen and grow

financial support.

(4) Community Engagement & Advocacy

● Serve as the primary spokesperson for the organization, promoting its mission and impact.

● Build and maintain strong relationships with families, community partners, and stakeholders.

● Develop outreach initiatives to increase family, community and stakeholder support.

● Engage in advocacy efforts that support early childhood education policies and funding.

Qualifications & Experience

● Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Nonprofit Management, Business

Administration, or a related field.

● Minimum of 5 years of leadership experience in early childhood education, nonprofit

management, or a related sector.

● Strong understanding of early childhood development, curriculum best practices, and state

licensing/accreditation requirements.

● Proven experience in fundraising, grant writing, and financial management.

● Demonstrated ability to build and maintain community and stakeholder relationships.

● Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.

Preferred Additional Qualifications

● Experience managing a nonprofit organization or education center.

● Knowledge of emerging trends in early childhood education and nonprofit sustainability.

● Background in advocacy or public policy related to education and child development.

Compensation & Benefits:

The salary range for this role is $75,000-$100,000, with a precise salary offer to be determined based on

candidate experience and qualifications.

TCC recognizes that our leaders and employees are our greatest asset and we are committed to

supporting their health, well-being, and financial stability through outstanding benefits. Our benefits

package includes:

● 3 weeks paid vacation when the center is closed

● 10 additional accrued PTO days

● IRA matching funds available for up to 3%

● Health insurance (employer contributed)

● Dental insurance (100% employer contributed)

● Optional vision insurance

● Disability coverage (short and long-term coverage)

● Life insurance (employer provided)

● An additional wellness stipend provided to support employee health and well-being

● A generous stipend for Professional Development

How to Apply:

To apply, please email your resume and letter of interest to edsearch@tccmaine.org. Applications will be

reviewed on a rolling basis, with preference given to applications received by May 1.

Employment offers will be subject to the completion of three references, as well as a background check.