Executive Director (Aspen)

Position Summary:

The Executive Director serves as the chief executive of Early Learning Center, a nonprofit early childhood care and education center committed to providing high-quality, affordable care for young children in the Aspen community. The Executive Director is responsible for the overall leadership, strategic direction, and day-to-day operations of the center, ensuring excellence in programming, fiscal sustainability, staff development, and community engagement. This role is central to fostering a nurturing and inclusive learning environment and promoting equity and access for all families served.

Key Responsibilities:

Mission-Driven Leadership

• Champion the center’s mission, values, and commitment to early childhood education, family support, and community inclusion
• Work in partnership with the Board of Directors to develop and execute long-range plans, policy initiatives, and strategic goals

Program Oversight

• Ensure delivery of developmentally appropriate, evidence-based curriculum aligned with Colorado early learning standards.
• Promote a culture of continuous learning and child-centered care
• Support teachers in maintaining engaging, safe, and inclusive classroom environments, and may provide direct support in classrooms as needed to maintain staffing ratios and ensure continuity of care

Nonprofit Operations & Compliance

• Oversee all aspects of operations, ensuring compliance with state licensing regulations, health and safety standards, and best practices in early childhood care.
• Maintain accurate records and prepare reports for licensing bodies, funders, and the Board.
• Develop and maintain operational policies and procedures to support efficient and compliant operations.

Staff Leadership & Development

• Recruit, hire, develop and retain a passionate and qualified team of educators and support staff.
• Provide ongoing training, mentorship, and performance evaluations to ensure professional growth and high-quality care.
• Foster a collaborative, respectful workplace that values diversity, equity, and staff well-being.
• Provide direct classroom support as needed, modeling best practices in early childhood education.

Financial Management & Fundraising

• Develop and manage the annual operating budget in collaboration with the Board Treasurer.
• Monitor revenues and expenses to ensure financial sustainability.
• Lead fundraising initiatives, grant writing, and donor engagement efforts to diversify funding streams and support accessibility and affordability

Family & Community Engagement

• Cultivate strong relationships with families, encouraging open communication and meaningful involvement in the center’s life.
• Serve as a visible ambassador in the Aspen and Roaring Fork Valley communities, building partnerships with local nonprofits, government agencies, donors, and stakeholders.
• Advocate for early childhood education and family support services within the broader regional and state landscape.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, nonprofit management, public administration, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Minimum 5 years of leadership experience in a nonprofit or early childhood setting.
• Proven track record in staff supervision, financial management, and community engagement.
• Strong knowledge of Colorado childcare licensing requirements and early learning best practices.
• Experience with fundraising, grant writing, and donor relations.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and the holistic development of young children.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $105,000.00 – $115,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Employee assistance program
Health insurance
Paid time off
Professional development assistance
Relocation assistance
Work Location: In person