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Executive Child Development Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

ED Staff Physician

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$203K - $255K/yr

The national honor recognizes the top diverse healthcare executives and organizations influencing ... In addition, Child Life staff, trained in child development, help children prepare for procedures ...

ED Staff Physician

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$203K - $255K/yr

The national honor recognizes the top diverse healthcare executives and organizations influencing ... In addition, Child Life staff, trained in child development, help children prepare for procedures ...

Showing results 21-40

Executive Child Development information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an executive child development professional?

To thrive as an Executive in Child Development, you need advanced knowledge of early childhood education, program management, and often a master's degree in education or a related field. Familiarity with curriculum development software, regulatory compliance systems, and accreditation standards is typically required. Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help in guiding teams and building relationships with families and stakeholders. These competencies ensure the effective delivery of high-quality programs and the overall growth and well-being of children and staff.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in executive child development roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Executive Child Development roles often face challenges such as balancing administrative duties with direct program oversight, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and supporting staff professional development. Navigating limited resources while maintaining high-quality programs can also be demanding. Success often relies on strong leadership, effective communication, and building collaborative relationships with educators, families, and community partners. Staying informed about best practices and investing in continuous learning can help address these challenges and foster a positive organizational culture.

What is an executive child development professional?

An Executive Child Development professional typically refers to someone in a leadership or administrative role within an organization that serves children, such as a childcare center, preschool, or early childhood education program. These professionals oversee program development, staff management, compliance with regulations, and often work on curriculum planning and parent communication. Their goal is to ensure a high standard of care and education for young children while managing the operational and strategic aspects of the organization.

What is the difference between Executive Child Development vs Child Development Specialist?

AspectExecutive Child DevelopmentChild Development Specialist
CredentialsBachelor’s or Master’s in Child Development, Education, or related field; certifications may varyDegree in Child Development, Education, Psychology, or related field; certifications often required
Work EnvironmentAdministrative roles, program oversight, policy development in educational or childcare organizationsDirect interaction with children, implementing developmental programs, assessments in schools or clinics
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government agencies, educational institutionsPreschools, daycare centers, clinics, community programs

Executive Child Development roles focus on program management, policy, and administrative oversight, often requiring leadership skills. Child Development Specialists work directly with children, assessing and supporting their developmental needs. Both roles require relevant education and certifications but differ mainly in responsibilities and work settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Child Development jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Child Development jobs in Minnesota are:
Infographic showing various Executive Child Development job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Executive School Director - New School

The Gardner School

Maple Grove, MN • On-site

$58K - $73K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


The Gardner School rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 23 rated private schools and tutoring


Job description

It's fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they're doing!
We're committed to bringing passion and customer focus to the business.
🎉 Join the Founding Team at Our Brand-New Preschool in Maple Grove, Minnesota 🎉
Position Overview:
Job Title: Executive School Director- New School
Reports To: District Manager
Location: Maple Grove, MN
Are you an experienced, passionate early childhood leader ready to launch and lead a brand-new school community? Join us as the Executive School Director at our newest preschool location, opening in Fall 2026!
At The Gardner School, we believe in providing a nurturing, academically focused environment where children thrive-and where leaders like you inspire excellence every day. As the Executive School Director of our newest school, you'll be at the helm of building a high-performing team, cultivating family partnerships, and bringing our mission and values to life from Day One.
The Executive School Director at The Gardner School is a dynamic leader responsible for fostering a positive educational environment, driving operational excellence, and upholding The Gardner School's mission, vision, and values. This role requires a hands-on leader who can inspire, mentor, and manage a team, while maintaining high standards of educational quality, compliance, operational efficiency, and community engagement. In addition to upholding a positive brand image for The Gardner School within the community, the Executive School Director drives the school's financial performance, meeting key objectives through effective operational management, team leadership, and strategic planning. The Executive School Director plays a critical role in shaping the school's success and reputation.
What You'll Do:
  • Drive enrollment growth by leading tours, follow-ups, and community marketing efforts
  • Build strong relationships with families and represent the school in the local community
  • Recruit, hire, train, and coach team members to create a positive, high-performing culture
  • Lead and support staff development through feedback, observations, and ongoing training
  • Oversee daily school operations, including staffing, scheduling, and overall performance
  • Manage budgets and resources to ensure financial health and operational efficiency
  • Execute enrollment and seasonal plans to maximize capacity and classroom transitions
  • Ensure a safe, compliant, and high-quality learning environment
  • Maintain strong communication with families and continuously improve the overall experience

What We Offer:
  • Competitive Pay: The starting salary range for this position is $58,000-$73,000 annually. Actual pay will depend on factors such as relevant experience, skills, and education. In addition to base salary, this role is eligible for a quarterly, performance-based bonus.
  • Comprehensive Benefits: Health, dental, and vision insurance; paid time off; 401(k) with company match; childcare tuition discount; paid holidays; and professional development opportunities
  • Career Growth: Ongoing professional development and training, opportunities for advancement within our growing organization, and a supportive, mission-driven culture.

Minimum Qualifications:
Education:
  • Meet Minnesota Rules Child Care Director Licensing Standards for education and experience (Required)
  • Bachelor's degree (Required). Master's degree (preferred). Prefer degree in Early Childhood Education, Childhood Development, Education Administration, Business or related field.

Experience:
  • Minimum of two years in licensed childcare with at least one year as a Director or supervising a childcare program with a track record of team management, operational oversight, and community engagement (Required).
  • Experience with startup of childcare center (preferred).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Strong leadership, financial, organizational, and communication skills; proficiency with relevant software, including Microsoft Office.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in budget management, financial analysis, and resource allocation to support the school's financial health and growth targets
  • Skilled in optimizing school operations, managing workflows, and maintaining high standards in both educational quality and compliance.
  • Strong understanding of licensing standards
  • Capable of problem solving by assessing situations quickly and developing solutions that align with school objectives and benefit the school community.
  • Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English fluently, sufficient to communicate effectively with students, families, and staff, implement curriculum and safety procedures, and complete written reports.
  • Ability to manage time effectively and efficiently
  • Ability to multi-task
  • Regular and reliable attendance
  • Engages effectively with families, Team Members, and community partners, fostering trust, collaboration, and customer satisfaction.

Physical Demands:
  • Ability to operate computer, phone and other office equipment as needed
  • Ability to lift and carry children up to 60 pounds
  • Ability to communicate effectively
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the position

The Gardner School extends equal employment opportunities to qualified applicants and employees on an equal basis regardless of an individual's age, race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other reason prohibited by law.

What The Gardner School employees say

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