Childcare Center Director

Director - Avondale Children’s Center - Charlotte, NC

Avondale Children’s Center is a ministry of Avondale Presbyterian Church, partnering in the church’s mission to serve families in our community.

Reports to: Board of Directors Full-Time | Exempt

Avondale Children’s Center (ACC), a 5-Star rated early childhood program serving children ages 8 weeks through TK, seeks a dynamic, mission-driven Director to lead our next chapter.

The Director provides strategic leadership and daily operational oversight to ensure excellence in education, staff development, regulatory compliance, financial stewardship, and family engagement. This role sets the tone for the Center’s culture and promotes a positive image within the Church and broader community.

We are seeking a strong leader who combines administrative excellence with warmth, approachability, and a deep passion for early childhood education.

Strategic & Operational Leadership

• Oversee all daily operations of a 6-classroom early childcare center
• Maintain 5-Star licensing and accreditation standards
• Ensure compliance with all NC childcare, health, and employment regulations
• Uphold safety protocols and emergency preparedness
• Oversee scholarship program to assure fair, consistent, and confidential information

Team & Culture

• Supervise and mentor Assistant Director in developing a strong leadership team
• Hire, develop, celebrate, and retain high-performing teachers and staff
• Build a trust-based culture of excellence
• Maintain strong morale among the 24 member staff
• Demonstrate consistency with staff by modeling professionalism
• Build a strong foundation of respect through daily presence at the Center

Family & Community Partnership

• Serve as the primary liaison to families, clearly communicating on a regular basis
• Meet with parents about concerns, including classroom transitions or other developmental needs
• Support positive parent/teacher communication by regular parent events
• Collaborate with parent groups on events and fundraising
• Promote the Center within the Church and broader community
• Nurture a positive relationship with Avondale Presbyterian Church by partnering with its leaders and staff.

Board & Governance

• Collaborate closely with Board President in planning monthly meetings
• Provide monthly operational and financial reporting

Financial

• Partner with the Board Treasurer and Church financial coordinator to manage the annual budget
• Oversee tuition collection, staff payroll, and other financial expenditures
• Ensure sustainable enrollment and a healthy waitlist

Qualifications

Required

• NC Level III Early Childhood Administrator Credential (or equivalent)
• Minimum 6 years in early childhood education, including 3+ years in administration
• Deep knowledge of NC Child Care Licensing and Star Rated License process
• Experience maintaining regulatory and accreditation standards
• Strong budgeting and operational management skills
• Completion of all state-required screenings and background checks
• CPR certification (or willingness to obtain)Preferred
• Experience in faith-adjacent or nonprofit environments
• Experience leading through change or rebuilding culture

Center Size & Scope

• Number of classrooms: 6
• Number of staff: 14 full time lead teachers, 1 full time floater, 7 part time floaters, 1 assistant director
• Enrollment capacity: 90

Benefits

• Salary: $60,000-$70,000 DOE
• Health benefits
• PTO: 3 weeks
• Tuition discounts: 25% + increases yearly

Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $60,000.00 - $70,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person