Senior Director of Engagement Services

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. 1. Program Administration and Compliance
2. 2. Program Oversight and Resource Management
3. 3. Program Evaluation and Improvement
4. 4. Leadership and Team Development
5. 5. Strategic Planning and Program Development
6. 6. Community and Stakeholder Engagement 
7. 8. Reporting and Documentation 
8. 9. Communication and Representation

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