Childcare Manager

Description

The WeeWACs Manager is responsible for the leadership, daily operation, and continuous improvement of the Washington Athletic Club's childcare and youth enrichment program. This role ensures the delivery of high-quality, educationally focused programming while maintaining a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for children and families.

The Manager serves as a key partner to the VP of Club Life & Community, contributing ideas that support the Club's family programming strategy, member engagement goals, and long-term vision for WeeWACs. This position oversees staff, manages center operations and technology systems, develops and implements new processes, and supports the growth and evolution of family-focused experiences at the WAC.

Key Responsibilities

· Program Development & Educational Leadership

· Develop, implement, and enhance educationally based programs that support children's cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.

· Create engaging curriculum, enrichment activities, camps, and seasonal programming that reflect best practices in early childhood education.

· Evaluate program effectiveness using member feedback, participation data, and industry trends.

· Ensure all programs meet applicable licensing standards, safety requirements, and Club expectations.

· Identify opportunities to introduce innovative programming that enhances the family member experience.

Operational Management

· Oversee the day-to-day operations of the WeeWACs center, ensuring a safe, welcoming, and organized environment.

· Develop and implement new processes and operating procedures that improve efficiency, communication, and service delivery.

· Monitor staffing, scheduling, enrollment, and resource utilization to ensure operational excellence.

· Maintain compliance with state licensing regulations, club policies, and safety protocols.

· Manage department budgets, supplies, and operational resources responsibly.

Technology & Systems Administration

· Manage childcare management software (which will be new to the WAC) and related systems used for enrollment, attendance tracking, billing, communication, scheduling, and reporting.

· Ensure accurate data management and reporting.

· Train staff on software utilization and operational best practices.

Team Leadership & Staff Development

· Recruit, hire, onboard, and retain a dependable, high-performing team.

· Foster a positive, collaborative, and service-oriented culture.

· Provide coaching, mentorship, and professional development (MERIT) opportunities for staff.

· Conduct performance evaluations and establish clear expectations and accountability.

· Develop staffing plans that ensure appropriate coverage and exceptional service levels.

Member & Family Engagement

· Build strong relationships with children, parents, and caregivers to create an exceptional WeeWACs experience.

· Serve as the primary point of contact for member concerns, feedback, and program recommendations.

· Support membership retention by ensuring programs remain relevant, engaging, and responsive to member needs.

· Promote WeeWACs programs and services throughout the Club community.

Strategic Partnership & Leadership Collaboration

· Partner with the VP of Club Life & Community to identify opportunities for growth, innovation, and enhanced member value.

· Contribute ideas and recommendations that support the Club's family activities committee on engagement and community-building objectives.

· Collaborate with Club leadership and other departments to create integrated family experiences and Club-wide programming.

· Participate in annual planning, budgeting, and goal-setting initiatives.

· Provide regular updates on program performance, participation trends, and operational needs.

Qualifications

· Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Education, Child Development, Recreation Management, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.

· Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible experience in childcare, youth programming, recreation, education, or a related field.

· Demonstrated experience leading teams and managing day-to-day operations.

· Experience developing educational or enrichment-based programming.

· Experience with childcare management software and operational systems.

· Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.

· Ability to develop processes, implement change, and manage multiple priorities effectively.

· Knowledge of childcare licensing regulations, safety standards, and risk management practices.

· Passion for creating exceptional experiences for children and families.

Success Measures

· Delivery of engaging, educational, and well-attended programs.

· Strong staff retention, development, and team performance.

· Successful implementation of operational improvements and new processes.

· High member and parent satisfaction ratings.

· Compliance with all licensing and safety requirements.

· Positive collaboration with the VP of Club Life & Community and cross-functional departments.

· Growth in program participation and overall family engagement within the Club.

BENEFIT INFORMATION

· Benefit package for full-time team members: medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability insurance

· Paid Time Off (PTO) – accrues at a rate of .0519 hours per hours worked to a maximum of 108 hours per year 

· 9 paid holidays per year

· 401(K) with employer match

· Employee Assistance Program

· ORCA Passport Program

· Pet insurance available

· Free daily meal (soup/salad bar)

· Discount on spa services and products