Description

Description

The School of Education is looking for someone to fill the Executive Director position within the Head Start Agency. This position includes the development and oversight of policies/procedures based on local, state, University and federal rules and regulations. The position requires discretion and independent judgment in decision making related to personnel and human resources matters, child health and safety, operation of transportation services, facility maintenance, safety, and financial management. The ability to make independent decisions is necessary in order to analyze and minimize risks for children, families, staff, and the University. Application review will begin after October 15, 2025, with applications accepted until the position is filled.

The anticipated salary for this position is $7,500.00 to 8,708.00 monthly ($90,000.00 to $104,496.00 annually). Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity.

Examples of Duties

1. Plans, coordinates, and implements the Head Start Program consistent with the overall program mission, goals, and strategic plan.
2. Directs the development of program annual grant proposal, financial plans, and budgets and works in concert with governing bodies, appropriate University departments and funding source for approvals and grant submission.
3. Develops and monitors necessary management systems and procedures to assure fiscal accountability, record keeping and reporting, and compliance with all applicable local, state and federal rules/regulations.
4. Develops and oversees an ongoing monitoring system to ensure quality control of all service areas and ensure the safety of Head Start children.
5. Promotes innovation and continuous quality improvement at all program levels by establishing systems of professional development, succession, and staff support.
6. Serves as an advocate for the program and promotes excellent public relations by serving on boards, committees, and participating in community activities.

Qualifications

Minimum:

1. Master's Degree required with at least five years of experience as an administrator/supervisor in a social services organization, child care/development setting, educational environment or related field working with children and families.
2. Experience should include the ability to manage a substantial budget and complex working environment while setting goals for the organization and providing leadership to fulfill the mission of Head Start. The ability to communicate effectively is required.

Preferred:

1. Knowledge of DCFS rules and regulations affecting children and families.
2. Commit to and abide by the program's Standards of Conduct to ensure that all children are always physically and emotionally safe while in the care of Head Start.
3. Experience working with Federal or State grants and
4. Previous work experience with a Head Start provider.

R equired Documents: Submit a letter of application, current CV, and three references.

Contact: William Carr, william.carr@siu.edu

Supplemental Information

Benefits

University employees may be eligible for a variety of State of Illinois benefits. These benefits are administered through the Illinois Department of Central Management Service (CMS). These benefits include: Health Insurance plans (HMOs, OAPs, QCHP and CDHP), Dental Insurance, Vision Plan, Life Insurance, Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D), Supplemental Long Term Disability (LTD), Flex Spending Accounts, MCAP and DCAP, and 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan.

Eligible employees are required to participate in the State Universities Retirement System (SURS). SURS is the retirement administrator for employees in public higher education in the State of Illinois.

Other benefits available to eligible employees include: Generous paid time-off, 403(b) Supplemental Retirement Plans, Employee Assistance Program and a Tuition Waiver Program.
For more information please visit: https://hr.siu.edu/benefits/