Save the Children US

Senior Managing Director – Head Start

Save the Children US

full-time

Posted on:

Location Type: Hybrid

Location: Connecticut • District of Columbia • United States

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Salary

💰 $138,975 - $190,950 per year

Job Level

Senior

About the role

  • Oversee the translation of program design into scalable, high quality delivery frameworks and lead the implementation strategy of Head Start and Early Head Start programs across assigned states.
  • Ensure programs consistently meet or exceed Head Start quality, compliance, and performance standards by driving cross-functional collaboration with Quality & Compliance, Monitoring & Evaluation, program development, and shared services to address trends, improve efficiency, align resources, and enhance program outcomes at scale.
  • Provide executive oversight and leadership to State Program Directors, strengthening leadership capability, accountability, and consistent execution through coaching, performance management, and clear performance expectations.
  • Lead cross‑state operational readiness and start‑up efforts, ensuring new or expanding programs are implemented on time, within scope, and aligned to Head Start standards and delivery expectations.
  • Integrate best practices and emerging research in early childhood education, applying insights to strengthen program design, implementation, and impact in targeted Head Start and Early Head Start communities.
  • Serve as a technical lead for resource development efforts in order to strengthen the diversity and sustainability of Head Start program funding; support the development of donor proposals and reports and cultivate donor relationships through in-person meetings, site visits and other engagement events.
  • Build and maintain relationships between SCUS and other relevant organizations, including government entities and community organizations, to support Head Start and Early Head Start programs effectiveness and alignment.
  • Provide technical guidance and programmatic expertise in advocacy and policy engagement efforts as needed, contributing to development of policy agendas and participate in meetings with local, state and federal officials as needed.
  • Contribute to activities that increase brand visibility and program awareness, share knowledge products and results, represent Save the Children to the local press as needed, and identify other media-worthy moments that highlight our work.
  • Actively contribute as a member of the Head Start Leadership Team and Extended Senior Management, helping set direction and ensure alignment between strategy, execution, and outcomes.

Requirements

  • Minimum of a Bachelor Degree or equivalent experience, plus at least 10 years of relevant experience
  • Thorough knowledge of, and experience working with, Head Start standards and regulations, business practices, and program development, implementation, and monitoring of services
  • Experience providing ongoing technical assistance, training, and direction to diverse communities, individuals and groups, ensuring consistency with SCUS's mission and methodology
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills; engaging presenter capable of presenting to technical information to a non-technical audience
  • Willingness and ability to travel up to 35%
  • Professional proficiency in MS Office suite
  • Professional proficiency in spoken and written English
  • Demonstrated commitment to fostering and maintaining an environment of diversity, inclusion, and belonging.
Benefits
  • Flexible schedules and time off: Flexible schedules, generous PTO, 11 paid holidays plus 2 floating holidays and hybrid working opportunities
  • Health: Competitive health care, dental and vision coverage for you and your family
  • Family: A variety of paid leaves: caregiver, parental/adoption, critical child illness and fertility benefits
  • Employee Rewards Program: Annual merit increases and/or additional incentives for eligible employees
  • Retirement: A retirement savings plan with employer contributions (after one year)
  • Wellness: 15 safety and wellness days annually (if hired on or after July 1, safety and wellness days prorated to 8 days), mental health benefits and support through Calm and company-hosted events
  • Employee Assistance Program: free and confidential assessments, short-term counseling, referrals, and follow-up services
  • Learning & Growth: Access to internal and external learning & development opportunities and mentorships
Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills & Tools
program developmentimplementation strategyperformance managementtechnical assistancetrainingmonitoringadvocacypolicy engagementresource developmentdonor proposal development
Soft Skills
leadershipcoachingcommunicationcollaborationaccountabilityengaging presentationrelationship buildingdiversity and inclusionproblem-solvingstrategic thinking
Certifications
Bachelor Degree