Director Government Funded Programs - Remote Opportunity!

Futures start here. Where first steps, new friendships, and confident learners are born. At KinderCare Learning Companies, the first and only early childhood education provider recognized with the Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award, we offer a variety of early education and child care options for families. Whether it’s KinderCare Learning Centers, Champions, or Crème de la Crème, we build confidence for kids, families, and the future we share. And we want you to join us in shaping it—in neighborhoods, at work, and in schools nationwide.At KinderCare Learning Companies, you’ll use your skills and expertise to support the work (and fun) that happens in our sites and centers every day. From marketers and strategists to financial analysts and data engineers, and so much more, we’re all passionate about crafting a world where children, families, and organizations can thrive.The Director of Government Funding Operations is a strategic and execution-oriented leader responsible for building and managing the infrastructure, systems, and processes that enable successful implementation of government funding across KinderCare centers. This leader will translate complex funding opportunities into scalable operational models, partnering across the organization to ensure we meet compliance requirements, optimize funding utilization, and deliver outstanding service to children and families.The Director leads a team focused on both program operations and administration excellence and serves as a key thought partner in shaping our overall government funding strategy.ResponsibilitiesStrategy & LeadershipTranslate KinderCare’s government funding strategy into operational plans, systems, and processes.Serve as a strategic advisor to the VP of Subsidy & Government Funding on operational readiness, resource needs, and scaling approaches.Lead cross-functional planning and execution for new funding initiatives, including pilots, expansions, and transitions.Align operations with external requirements from public agencies and internal priorities from center operations, finance, HR, Education and other teams.Program Implementation & ManagementOversee the successful launch and execution of government-funded programs (e.g., Head Start partnerships, Pre-K contracts, DoD slots).Partner with field leaders and center staff to ensure programs are implemented with fidelity, meet performance standards, and deliver on key outcomes.Continuously evaluate program performance, identify improvement opportunities, and implement corrective actions.Operational ExcellenceEnsure all government funding programs operate with strong administrative support and compliance practices.Standardize and document business processes, workflows, and guidance to support center teams and internal stakeholders.Drive improvements in enrollment, eligibility, purchasing, billing, documentation, and reporting for publicly funded children.Champion continuous improvement through system enhancements, reporting, and feedback loops.Team ManagementLead and develop a high-performing, highly-engaged team.Provide strategic direction and day-to-day leadership to direct reports.Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability and problem-solving – encouraging innovation, ownership and continuous improvement. QualificationsBachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in Business, Public Administration or a related field preferred.8+ years of experience in early childhood education, government funding, public program operations, or strategic implementation roles.Strong understanding of federal, state, and local child care funding programs (e.g., CCDF, Head Start, Pre-K, military contracts).Proven success leading complex, cross-functional initiatives from strategy to execution.Experience managing and developing teams in a dynamic, mission-driven environment.Outstanding project management, organizational, and communication skills.Comfort navigating ambiguity, solving problems, and driving structure in evolving program landscapes.Our benefits meet you where you are. We’re here to help our employees navigate the integration of work and life: Know your whole family is supported with discounted child care benefits. Breathe easy with medical, dental, and vision benefits for your family (and pets, too!). Feel supported in your mental health and personal growth with employee assistance programs. Feel great and thrive with access to health and wellness programs, paid time off and discounts for work necessities, such as cell phones. … and much more.We operate research-backed, accredited, and customizable programs in more than 2,000 sites and centers across 40 states and the District of Columbia. As we expand, we’re matching the needs of more and more families, dynamic work environments, and diverse communities from coast to coast. Because we believe every family deserves access to high-quality child care, no matter who they are or where they live. Every day, you’ll help bring this mission to life by building community and delivering exceptional experiences. And if you’re anything like us, you’ll come for the work, and stay for the people.KinderCare Learning Companies is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, military or veteran status, gender identity or expression, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law.