Director of Operations

CHS Central Office - Hershey, PA

Full-Time

The Director of Operations at Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning (CHS) is responsible for leading and managing operational functions across the CHS Central Office and Centers to ensure high-quality operations that directly support the CHS early learning program. Key areas of oversight include Program Support Services (food, transportation, cleaning, and child & family supports), Risk, Safety, and Security, and Facilities Management. The Director will develop and implement policies and procedures that promote operational excellence, staff accountability, regulatory compliance, and a safe, supportive environment for children and staff.

The ideal candidate is an experienced Operations leader with strong skills in planning, communication, conflict resolution, and compliance. Experience in Early Childhood Education or a related field is preferred. The salary range for this position is $ 81,072 to $108,231 per year, based on expertise.

Responsibilities:

Leadership & Collaboration

Work in close partnership with the Executive Director to align operational priorities with CHS' mission and vision
Collaborate with senior leaders across departments including Programs, Finance, HR, and Family Engagement to ensure seamless coordination and execution of initiatives
Participate in leadership meetings and cross-functional work groups to promote alignment, innovation, and continuous improvement across the CHS network
Provide guidance, mentorship, and support to Center Directors and other operational staff to strengthen leadership capacity and Center-level execution
Coordination and logistics of operating areas for building, training, and opening a new Center

Risk, Safety, and Security Management

Develop and maintain CHS Central Office and Center-level operational policies and procedures
Conduct regular internal audits and site reviews to ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements (e.g., OCDEL, Keystone STARS, NAEYC)
Lead the design and implementation of an organization-wide risk and safety strategy and provide data and trend information to Centers and CO Leadership to inform safety strategy
Oversee incident management processes, monitor and implement mitigation strategies in partnership with the CHS Leadership Team

Facilities Management

Conduct regular site visits to monitor operational consistency, facility maintenance, and adherence to best practices
Ensure all CHS Centers meet physical environment standards required by licensing and accreditation bodies
Oversee long-term maintenance planning, capital improvements, and vendor performance
Support operational readiness and infrastructure planning for new CHS locations

Program Support Services

Collaborate with the Executive Director and leadership team to implement operational strategies that support program quality and scalability
Manage contracts and vendor relationships for essential support services (e.g., food service, transportation, cleaning, child supplies)
Design, oversee, and drive compliance for key program support models across the organization
Evaluate and improve service delivery based on performance data and evolving program needs

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in business administration, management, or Logistics required. Master's Degree - MS, MBA preferred
8 years of experience in related field (Operations preferred)
2+ years of experience working in the Early Childhood space, and closely with OCDEL, Keystone STARS, and NAEYC quality standards preferred
Previous experience in new venture or similar entrepreneurial, high-growth setting preferred
Experience operating multiple entities and ensuring collaboration across large, decentralized teams
Advanced functional knowledge of integrated ERP systems, and advanced data analysis skills
Exceptional executive functioning, organizational, and time management skills, and an action- oriented mindset
Willingness to be held accountable and receive feedback
Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills including the ability to influence, lead, educate large teams
History of achieving strong demonstrated outcomes
Proficiency in using technology, including MS Office and Internet
Ability to work effectively with all levels of management, must have an understanding of new management techniques and objectives
Ability to work independently
Ability to proactively identify problems and implement solutions
Ability to work well across silos and departments to forge strong cross-disciplinary relationships
Ability to forge strong business relationships with external vendors at the community at large
Commitment to the mission and values of CHS and MHS and demonstrated high degree of integrity as all MHS and CHS staff are considered to be role models for children
U.S. work authorization and successful completion of pre-employment background checks and clearances

Who we are and what we’re looking for

At CHS, we are leaders passionate about early childhood education and community betterment. Our work is driven by the desire to endow children with the resources for educational and physical well-being, while supporting and empowering their families. We listen to the needs of our diverse community and adapt to give everyone a voice. We hold each-other accountable for bringing our best and most authentic selves to school every day, creating an environment of mutual respect.

We strive to build a team of individuals that is passionate about our mission, brings in new creative ideas, and loves their work. If this sounds like you, we look forward to seeing your application.

Apply Now

About Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning

At Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning, we nurture children, support them in discovering their world, and help them grow to reach their fullest potential. We are passionate educators, caregivers, and role models dedicated to successful early childhood development. We believe that a rich and solid foundation, along with a nurturing and supportive environment, is critical to helping children grow. We focus on the whole child, helping them flourish in mind and body. And we set them on a path to become their strongest, brightest, and best selves in school and beyond.

Catherine Hershey’s dream was to provide children with a well-rounded education. That dream lives on in her name and is our mission at Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning.

Jobs at Milton Hershey School

View more exciting job opportunities at Milton Hershey School.

Explore careers

Equal employment opportunity policy

Catherine Hershey Schools for Early Learning does not discriminate against applicants or employees, in hiring, promotion or any terms or conditions of employment, on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, sex, age, religion or religious creed, veteran status, disability or use of a guide or support animal because of the blindness, deafness or physical handicap of the user or because the user is a handler or trainer of support or guide animals, or any other status protected under applicable federal or Pennsylvania law.