Senior Director - Early Learning and Care

Location: Kansas City Metro Area
Organization: The Family Conservancy
Job Type: Full-time, Senior Leadership

Lead With Purpose at One of the Region’s Premier Nonprofits

Are you ready to shape the future of early learning and care in the Kansas City metro? The Family Conservancy (TFC), entering a new chapter with a new name, is seeking a Senior Director of Early Learning and Care (ELC) to lead and innovate across all ELC programs. For 145 years, TFC has strengthened families, supported early education, and promoted economic stability. This is your opportunity to join a mission-driven organization and help ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive.

The Family Conservancy’s Theory of Change

At The Family Conservancy, we believe that every child deserves a strong foundation for success. Our Theory of Change focuses on addressing early childhood education, economic stability, and family well-being to create lasting community impact. We invest in evidence-based programs, advocacy, and partnerships to ensure children and families receive the support they need to thrive. 

As Senior Director of Early Learning and Care, you will play a critical role in advancing this vision by leading the development and implementation of high-quality early learning programs. Your leadership will ensure that educational strategies, staff development, and program innovation are aligned with TFC’s long-term goals, supporting school readiness, family engagement, and equitable access to early learning opportunities.

The Opportunity

The Family Conservancy is seeking a Senior Director of Early Learning and Care to lead the strategic vision and direction of our early learning and care programs. This role ensures services are rooted in best practices, informed by data, and designed to create lasting impact for children, families, and communities. The Senior Director will guide program development, foster a culture of excellence among staff, and strengthen partnerships that expand access to high-quality services.

Team Structure & Direct Reports

As Senior Director of Early Learning and Care, you will oversee a team of early learning professionals, including program managers, specialists, and support staff dedicated to advancing high-quality child care and early education. Your leadership will guide and develop this team to ensure programs operate effectively, meet compliance and quality standards, and deliver meaningful outcomes for children and families.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight for all Early Learning and Care (ELC) programs, ensuring alignment with TFC’s mission, goals, and evidence-based educational practices.

• Lead the design, implementation, and evaluation of ELC programs, driving continuous quality improvement and compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards.

• Supervise and mentor program directors and staff, fostering professional development, collaboration, and accountability.

• Use data analytics to inform program planning, performance improvement, and resource allocation.

• Represent TFC externally by building partnerships, advocating for early education equity, and engaging with funders, policymakers, and community stakeholders.

• Identify and pursue opportunities for program innovation, expansion, and funding, collaborating with development and grant teams to support initiatives.

Education and Experience:

• Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field is required; doctoral degree preferred.

• Minimum of 8–10 years of progressive leadership experience.

• Proven track record in strategic planning, data-driven decision-making, and team leadership.

• Experience in community-based organizations, nonprofits, or early learning environments is highly desirable.

• Familiarity with grant-funded programs, reporting requirements, and stakeholder engagement.

• Bilingual fluency in written and oral English/Spanish preferred.
   

Benefits Offered:

• Medical Insurance 

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

• Health Savings Accounts (HSA)

• Vision & Dental Insurance

• Long-Term Disability Insurance

• Life Insurance

• 403(b) Retirement Plan with matching up to 2%

• Yearly 5% employer retirement contribution

• Personal Time Off (PTO)

• Rolling Paid Holidays (Instead of a fixed holiday schedule, employees may observe holidays that reflect their personal, cultural, or religious beliefs.)

• Flexible Work Schedules (Hybrid Model)
   

Why Join The Family Conservancy?

At TFC, you will be part of a highly respected organization that positively impacts thousands of children and families across the metro area. We offer a collaborative and mission-driven culture where innovation, compassion, and excellence thrive. You’ll have the opportunity to make a real difference—while working with a team that values your expertise, supports your growth, and celebrates your success.

Equal Employment Opportunity & Accommodations

The Family Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected status.

If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, please contact Dr. Gino Taylor at hrdept@thefamilyconservancy.org to discuss your needs.

Apply today and be a part of something extraordinary!