Manager of Early Learning Program and Development

Job Description

As a leader in Early Childhood Education the YMCAs Early Childhood Hubs workwith community organizations to provide programs andservices for children 0-5 years of age and their families. Working with the Early Learning Advisory Committee and community partners this position works to serve priority neighborhoods by advocating for families and ensuring a community development approach that puts children and families first in order to support and help break the cycle of generational poverty.

Programs includes: Pre-K to engage children in high quality early learning experiences, nutrition and health activity drop-in programs, playgroups, parent engagement activities, child minding to support partner organizations, and working with various support services. The Early Childhood Hubs also offers full day licensed Child Care and After School programs. Located in the South-End of Saint John within Saint John the Baptist-King Edward School and the North End in Hazen White/St. Francis School we are a hub for children, youth and families to gather and grow together. Our programming is designed to allow everyone the opportunity to reach their full potential.

The Opportunity

Reporting to the General Manager, Child Care & After School, the Manager is responsible for representing the YMCA on Early Learningrelated committees and collaborating with various stakeholders, including community organizations and government partners, to advance Early Learning priorities. In alignment with our strategic plan, the Manager will support the development and implementation of a sustainable Early Learning model.

The Manager will build and maintain strong relationships with community partners to foster an impactful, integrated service delivery approach that responds to client needs. They will provide leadership in the development of strategic work plans and ensure effective delivery of programs.

Additionally, the Manager will provide leadership, supervision, and coaching to the Child Care Supervisors overseeing the North and South Hub Child Care Centres, as well as their staff, volunteers, and students, ensuring program excellence. The Manager will also oversee the Community Program Coordinator, who is responsible for the coordination of on-site and outreach programs.

Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and maintain positive working relationships with key stakeholders including YMCA staff and volunteers, community agencies and service providers and schools to meet Child Care and community needs.
• Develop and implement strategic work plan for sustainable Early Learning Programs
• Work directly with Advisory committee and all levels of government to develop programs and make recommendations for system changes to advocate for and meet the needs of families living in priority neighborhoods.
• To set up, manage and meet association commitments and targets with regards to annual operating plans and budgets, fundraising, YMCA initiatives, other special projects, while ensuring that all programs operate at maximum capacity.
• Provide strategic leadership as a member of the YMCA Child Care management team, fulfilling various responsibilities to support Child Care operations as required.

Human Resources

• Responsible for management of operations at North and South Early Child Hood Hubs
• Provide guidance and support to Coordinators and Supervisors through leadership, coaching and positive role modelling.
• Create personal development plan for direct reports as well as performance evaluations annually. Ensure same is completed by direct reports for staff team.
• Develop and implement training opportunities for staff team as needed
• Provide support to Supervisors in managing staffing challenges including recruitment and employee relations.

Program Quality and Delivery

• Develop new program initiatives as identified by focus groups, trend and feedback.
• Oversee budgets and ensure targets are met for all programs. This includes direct involvement in the budget process and monthly monitoring or budget against actuals.

Financial and Resource Management

• Responsible for ensuring proper requirements are met for all provincially licensed centers and programs standards are met and/or exceeded.
• Ensure alignment with YMCA Playing to Learn, Child Protection and Y Way standards
• Closely monitor and evaluate program quality indicators and develop and implement strategies for improvement through monthly site assessments
• Evaluate all YMCA community programs and initiatives to ensure effectiveness and identify opportunities for growth and funding
• Assist Supervisors supporting staff and families and resolving any issues as needed

Skills and Qualifications

• Post-secondary degree in a related field; Early Childhood Education preferred.
• Minimum of five (5) years of management experience within a related business or not-for-profit organization.
• Demonstrated experience in strategic planning, program leadership, and developing grant proposals for funding.
• Highly motivated change agent with an understanding of the political environment and issues related to poverty.
• Strong organizational skills with a professional, results-focused approach and the ability to demonstrate measurable impact.
• Experience in recruitment, hiring, performance management, and staff training considered an asset.
• Current First Aid and CPR certification.
• Employment is contingent upon a clear Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search. A Social Development check is also required.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
  

What We Offer

• Professional Development:Ongoing training and skill-building opportunities.

• Perks:YMCA individual membership and Family membership taxable benefit, flexible hours
• Supportive Environment:Work with a team that values growth and career progression.
• Paid personal Y Dayand uniform allowance.
• Benefits:Eligibility to enroll in the YMCAs benefits and pension plan.
• Competitive Compensation

(Starting salaries are based on skills and experience and typically fall between the minimum and mid-point of the range. The YMCA also offers opportunities for growth, regular reviews for progression, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in our community.)

Interested in Joining Us?

Interested candidates are invited to apply with us online at Careers | YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick. We ask all applicants to submit their cover letter and resume. The YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick appreciates the interest of all applicants; however, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

We value the unique perspectives and contributions of each individual and are committed to building an inclusive, diverse workforce.

Duty to Accommodate

The YMCA is committed to creating inclusive and accessible environments for all. If you require an accommodation at any stage of the application or employment process, we encourage you to let us know so we can ensure equitable opportunities for all.