Senior Director of Engagement Services bei ECS4KIDS

Description

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: 

The Senior Director of Engagement Services is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing and directing the administrative and programmatic functions of multiple Head Start and Early Head Start programs. This role includes managing Family Services, Home-Based Services, Outreach, and Trauma Informed Care initiatives. The Senior Director ensures compliance with State and Federal regulations and Head Start Performance Standards while delivering high-quality services that support the holistic development and well-being of children and families in the community.  

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Program Administration and Compliance

• Oversee and manage the Head Start and Early Head Start grants, ensuring full compliance with State and Federal regulations and adherence to Head Start Performance Standards. 
• Administer and monitor programmatic and operational aspects of the grants, including budget management and resource allocation. 

2. Program Oversight and Resource Management

• Supervise and provide strategic direction for Family Support Services, Home-Based Options, and Outreach initiatives. 
• Manage budgets and allocate resources effectively, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Develop and monitor budgets in coordination with the Vice President of HS/EHS to identify efficiencies and meet Non-Federal Share (NFS) requirements. 

3. Program Evaluation and Improvement

• Ensure program effectiveness through continuous evaluation, data analysis, and outcome measurement. 
• Implement and oversee systems for program evaluation, including performance metrics and improvement plans. 

4. Leadership and Team Development

• Collaborate with the Head Start Leadership team to integrate services into overall program goals and initiatives to promote the school readiness of children. 
• Provide guidance, mentoring, and foster a culture of professional development, collaboration, and accountability among team members as part of the commitment to excellence. 

5. Strategic Planning and Program Development

• Participate in program planning and the development of operational systems, Policies and Procedures, Self-Assessments, Program Information Reports, Improvement Plans, and T/TA Plans. 
• Establish performance goals and contribute to long and short-term planning initiatives for the Head Start and Early Head Start programs. 

6. Community and Stakeholder Engagement 

• Cultivate and maintain partnerships with community organizations, government agencies, and stakeholders to enhance program effectiveness and sustainability. 
• Represent ECS in community forums, events, and advocacy efforts, promoting the needs of children and families served by the programs. 

7. Trauma-Informed Care

• Ensure the implementation of best practices in trauma-informed care within all program services. 
• Stay informed about current trends, research, and policy developments related to trauma-informed care. 

8. Reporting and Documentation 

• Assist in the preparation of the Annual Report, HS/EHS Grant Applications, Program Budget, and Community Needs Assessment. 
• Prepare and submit accurate and timely reports required by funding sources, the Board of Trustees, Policy Council, and other relevant parties. 

9. Communication and Representation

• Maintain continuous communication with the Vice President of HS/EHS and Chief Operating Officer regarding important issues and program developments. 
• Actively represent ECS throughout the community, fostering key relationships and advocating for the organization's mission and goals. 

10. Professional Development 

• Stay abreast of current trends, research, and policy developments related to early childhood education, family services, and trauma-informed care. 

(These essential job functions are not to be construed as a complete statement of duties performed. Employees will be required to perform other related marginal duties as required.)  

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIP:

• This position reports to the Executive Vice President of Head Start  

Requirements

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: 

• Licensed Mental Health Professional with a minimum of three years clinical work experience; knowledge of serving young children and their families highly preferred 

Consideration will be given to candidates who are eligible for licensing and hold a current intern license in the state of Florida and a development plan in place to obtain  

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES: 

• Head Start experience, or the ability to quickly understand the Head Start philosophy and model, is required.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to work as part of a highly collaborative team within the organization and build positive rapport with key community groups and constituents.
• Demonstrated experience in a change management environment requiring leadership in defining process and establishing relationships, both internal and external.
• Demonstrated experience in program planning, operations, and evaluation, and the use of management information systems. 
• Creative problem-solver with the ability to use data and sound judgment to drive decision making.
• Working knowledge of accounting principles and budgeting processes. 
• Excellent judgment and creative problem-solving skills including negotiation and conflict resolution.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office products at an intermediate to advanced level. 
• Significant experience in planning, administration, and supervision. 
• Demonstrate the ability to communicate and interact with all levels of personnel, parents, and external vendors with professionalism and diplomacy. 
• Ability to plan and direct activities to write goals and objectives.  

LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS OR REGISTRATIONS:

• Valid driver’s license and proof of automobile coverage
• Satisfactory Driving Record (as outlined in Vehicle Driving Policy)
• Complete a minimum of 15 clock hours of professional development per year  

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:

• Works in an office setting with regional travel to multiple sites required
• Some out-of-town travel, including nights and weekends required 

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL SKILLS:

• Typical Physical & Mental Demands: Requires prolonged sitting with some bending, stooping, and stretching, and eye-hand coordination and manual dexterity sufficient to operate a keyboard, telephone, photocopier, calculator, and other office equipment.
• Requires normal range of hearing and eyesight to communicate with clients and staff. 

(Reasonable accommodations will be made for otherwise qualified individuals with a disability)