Executive DirectorSeeds of Wonder, a nature-based Montessori pre-school in Kittery, MainePosition Title: Executive DirectorReports to: Chair, Board of DirectorsType: full-time salaried, non-exemptOn-site/remote: 5/0, 4/1, or 3/2 depending on the demands of the job and staffing needsPay: $73000-$85,000 annually—pay is commensurate on qualifications and experienceBenefits: monthly heal...th insurance stipend, PTO, professional development support, discount for enrolled staff children, matching 401k contributionsStart date: January 1 or thereafterOrganization DescriptionSeeds of Wonder is a small community-minded, nature-based Montessori preschool operating in the Kittery Community Center (KCC) in Kittery, Maine.The mission of Seeds of Wonder is to nurture each child’s sense of wonder, curiosity, and kinship with the natural world through a collaborative approach to nature-based Montessori education.JOB SUMMARYThe Executive Director is responsible for the successful leadership, overall management, and operation of the non-profit organization according to the school’s mission & vision, strategic direction, and policies set by the Board of Directors. The Executive Director is responsible for policy and program implementation, and effective management of Seeds of Wonder, a nature-based Montessori preschool in Kittery, Maine.The Executive Director is responsible for the overall planning, development, and implementation of preschool Montessori and Nature Education programming by supporting teachers in their ongoing professional development and curriculum design. Additionally, the Executive Director oversees and nurtures the Childcare Operation Manager’s work to ensure all programming, staffing, and classrooms adhere to state and local licensing & regulations for childcare facilities.The Executive Director represents the organization to the parents & supporters, and to the greater community to advance advocacy objectives, programing initiatives, and community partnership goals.SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES & LEVEL OF AUTHORITYThe Board of Directors delegates responsibility and authority for management functions to the Executive Director to act on the Board’s behalf as the employer to:• Manage and make decisions on the day-to-day operations of the organization• Recruit, hire, supervise, and develop competent employees, and release employees• Under consultation with the school’s Childcare Operations Manager, assist and report to the Board on compliance requirements• Implement all policies adopted by the Board• Recommend appropriate policy issues for the Board’s attention• Serve as the CEO of the organizationThe Executive Director is responsible for ensuring that the organization is operated in compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal laws.The Executive Director is responsible for making decisions regarding the strategic and operational needs of employees, programs, execution & expansion of the organization’s mission, and pedagogical philosophies.INTERNAL RELATIONSHIPSReports to and advises the Board. Oversees the Childcare Operations Manager (COM). With Childcare Operations Manager, oversees, manages, and supports teachers and support staff. Fosters a school community culture based on mutual support, collaboration, growth mindset, and optimism; furthering the school’s mission & vision; and implementing best practices in serving students and their families.EXTERNAL RELATIONSHIPSOutreach in the greater community to support programming, financially and ideologically; inspire and engage others with the Seeds of Wonder mission & vision; expand enrollment, recruiting, and community connections with diversity, equity, and inclusion in mind.PRIORITY FUNCTIONSTeacher and staff support & development, enrollment management, responsible financial oversight, client satisfaction (families & supporters).• Responsible for the day-to-day operations of the organization, in weekly consultation with the Board Chair, and monthly reporting to the full board• Ensures the effective management of human resources directly related to hiring, support & supervision, coaching, coordination of professional development, and corrective action & dismissal regarding all employeesSPECIFIC DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIESThe job duties and responsibilities for the Executive Director include but are not limited to the following:LEADERSHIPBOARD RELATIONSPOLICY MANAGEMENTMANAGEMENT OF EMPLOYEESOPERATIONAL MANAGEMENT PLANNINGFINANCIAL MANAGEMENTADMINISTRATIVE MANAGEMENTPROGRAM MANAGEMENTSUCCESSION PLANNINGENROLLMENT MANAGEMENTCLIENT/FAMILY RELATIONSCOMMUNITY RELATIONS & ADVOCACYSTRATEGIC PLANNINGRISK MANAGEMENTOCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETYA comprehensive list of duties & tasks will be provided to candidates.EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION• BA or advanced degree in Education Administration, Educational Leadership, Non-profit Leadership, or other related field• Certification in Montessori and/or Nature Education• First-Aid and CPR Certifications• Demonstrated knowledge and skills in Human Resource Management, financial management, and risk managementEXPERIENCE• Minimum 5 to 10 years of experience working in senior childcare, education, or nonprofit management position• Experience in a Montessori and/or nature-based school or educational settingSPECIALIZED QUALIFICATIONS• Comprehensive knowledge of accounting practices/financial management• Proficient with software applications: Google Workspace, Drive, Docs, and Sheets or Microsoft office, Word, and Excel; Gusto, Brightwheel• Business tools and database administration for staff and student records, pay, and fee management• Knowledge of Public Health and employment statutes, codes, acts, and laws, and other relevant legislation• Excellent knowledge of all childcare licensing regulations and requirementsSKILLS AND ABILITIES• Ability to plan, develop, implement, and monitor a strong program• Strong interpersonal skills and empathy practice• capable of creating respectful, nurturing, and empowering relationships to build a cohesive and optimistic team• Ability to respond to emergencies, hostile behavior, and maintain control in high stress situations• Ability to think strategically, set priorities, and create plans to achieve goals• Ability to manage confidential information and situations in a professional manner• Demonstrate sound judgment and excellent communication skills (written and verbal)• Analytical skills related to budgeting and financial management• Ability to work cooperatively, foster a climate of shared respect and collaboration in managing teachers and staffJob Type: Full-timePay: $73,000.00 - $85,000.00 per yearBenefits:• 401(k) matching• Paid time off• Professional development assistanceSchedule:• Monday to FridayAbility to Relocate:• Kittery, ME 03904: Relocate before starting work (Required)Work Location: Hybrid remote in Kittery, ME 03904
Kittery ME United States