Development Manager Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Location: We have sites in Providence, RI, Pawtucket, RI and Central Falls, RI
Reports To: Vice President of Programs
Employment Type: Full-Time

Children’s Friend is looking for a passionate and experienced leader to join our Head Start team as a Family Development Manager.

If you believe families deserve access to coordinated, culturally responsive services that help children thrive, this is an opportunity to turn that belief into action.

As the Family Development Manager, you’ll provide leadership and oversight for comprehensive family development services across our Head Start and Early Head Start programs. You’ll work alongside dedicated staff, families, community partners, and Head Start leadership to ensure children and families receive the coordinated support they need — at home, in our centers, and throughout the community.

This is a leadership role for someone who understands that meaningful change happens through strong relationships, collaboration, advocacy, and high-quality services.

Lead Family Development Services

• Oversee Head Start and Early Head Start Family Development operations, ensuring services align with program goals, Head Start standards, and community needs.
• Ensure families receive high-quality, culturally responsive enrollment, assessment, planning, and services.
• Promote meaningful integration of family services across classrooms, homes, centers, and community settings.
• Support effective coordination and communication across Head Start program areas and Children’s Friend programs.

Champion Families & Parent Engagement

• Build strong partnerships with parents and caregivers and ensure their voices are an integral part of program planning and decision-making.
• Support meaningful parent involvement through parent committees and Policy Council.
• Respond directly to parent concerns, questions, and needs with compassion and professionalism.
• Participate in community assessments, program self-assessments, and annual priority-setting.

Lead & Develop Staff

• Provide weekly supervision and reflective guidance to Family Development Supervisors.
• Recruit, hire, onboard, train, supervise, and evaluate program staff.
• Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Identify opportunities to strengthen collaboration and integration across the agency.

Build Partnerships & Strengthen Programs

• Develop and maintain productive relationships with funding sources, state and federal organizations, and community partners.
• Help advance program development, grant activities, and funding opportunities.
• Participate in budget planning and review monthly financial statements.
• Represent Children’s Friend and help educate the community about our programs and services.

Ensure Quality & Compliance

• Ensure program operations meet Head Start and applicable state and local requirements.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure timely submission of required reports.
• Promote ongoing professional development and continuous improvement among staff and within the program.

We’re looking for a leader who combines strong program management skills with genuine passion for children and families.

Required qualifications include:

• Master’s degree in Social Work, Child Development, Early Childhood Education, or a related field.
• At least 3 years of direct service experience, including experience working with children with developmental disabilities and/or delays.
• At least 5 years of supervisory experience, with a focus on program administration, program integration, and comprehensive services for vulnerable families.
• Experience with program development and building strong community collaborations.
• A commitment to culturally responsive, family-centered services.
• Valid driver’s license, required insurance coverage, and reliable transportation for work-related activities.
• Ability to meet required medical clearance and immunization requirements.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to successfully complete all pre-employment requirements.

• A mission-driven organization committed to equity, inclusion, and community
• A collaborative and supportive workplace culture
• Opportunities for professional growth and meaningful impact
• Comprehensive benefits and professional development support

We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and are committed to creating a workplace that supports and celebrates diversity. If you need assistance or accommodation during the application process, please contact us at talent@cfsri.org.