Director, Childcare Licensed Center

The Director's position is a hands-on leadership role at the heart of everything we do. You will be responsible for the full scope of daily operationsensuring Michigan LARA licensing compliance and managing CACFP participation to building and leading a dedicated team of childcare professionals. This role leads with both structure and heart, bringing operational excellence together with genuine warmth for children and families. As the face of our center to families, licensing consultants, and the Detroit community, the Director will champion our family-centered culture, foster meaningful family relationships, and ensure every child receives a developmentally appropriate, safe, and engaging experience. If you are a mission-driven early childhood leader ready to make a lasting impact, we would love to hear from you. Key Responsibilities - Oversee all daily center operations in full compliance with Michigan LARA childcare licensing regulations and center policies. - Maintain and manage the center's active participation in the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), including menu planning, documentation, and reporting. - Recruit, hire, supervise, and formally evaluate childcare staff; conduct regular performance reviews and provide constructive coaching. - Ensure staff-to-child ratios are maintained at all times per Michigan licensing standards, adjusting staffing as needed. - Implement and monitor a developmentally appropriate curriculum (e.g., Creative Curriculum, HighScope, or equivalent evidence-based program). - Conduct and document regular safety drills --- fire, tornado, and lockdown --- and maintain current emergency preparedness plans. - Maintain accurate, up-to-date child files, staff files, immunization records, and all compliance documentation. - Serve as the primary point of contact for Michigan LARA licensing consultants and CACFP monitors during site visits and audits. - Develop and manage the center budget; monitor expenses, track spending, and manage vendor and supplier relationships. - Foster strong, respectful, and professional relationships with enrolled families; facilitate family meetings and resolve concerns with care and timeliness. - Coordinate enrollment processes, maintain the waitlist, and oversee tuition collection and financial record-keeping. - Lead staff onboarding, orientation, and ongoing professional development planning to support team growth and retention. - Ensure all health, safety, and sanitation standards are consistently met across classrooms, common areas, and outdoor spaces. - Submit required reports, timesheets, incident documentation, and regulatory filings accurately and on time.