Non Profit Program Manager - CQEL

About CQEL

California Quality Early Learning (CQEL) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting childcare leaders in California. Our mission is to elevate the quality of early learning by providing advocacy, professional development, and resources to childcare professionals, enabling them to create transformative outcomes for children and families.

Position Summary

The Program Manager is responsible for the organization's strategic, operational, and financial leadership. The PM works closely with the Board of Directors to ensure the organization’s mission, vision, and values are carried out effectively. The PM also advocates for policies that support childcare leaders and early learning programs in California.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Strategic Planning

•Provide visionary leadership to advance CQEL’s mission and objectives.

•Develop and implement strategic plans that align with organizational goals and address key issues facing childcare leaders.

•Represent CQEL as a thought leader in early childhood education and childcare policy.

•Advancing the organization through technology to improve the member experience, build efficiency, and stay technologically relevant.

Fundraising and Financial Management

•Oversee and expand diverse revenue streams, including grants, memberships, sponsorships, and events.

•Develop and manage the annual budget to ensure financial sustainability and alignment with organizational priorities.

•Cultivate relationships with donors and funding partners to support CQEL’s programs and initiatives.

Program Oversight and Development

•Oversee the development and delivery of programs, resources, and events that support childcare leaders.

•Ensure CQEL’s programs are relevant, impactful, and aligned with member needs and state priorities.

Team Management and Operations

•Lead, mentor, and support a team of staff and volunteers to foster a culture of collaboration and excellence.

•Oversee operational systems, policies, and processes to ensure organizational effectiveness.

•Maintain compliance with all legal, ethical, and governance requirements.

Communications and Membership Engagement

•Serve as the public face of CQEL, promoting its mission and programs to members, partners, and the media.

•Enhance member engagement and satisfaction through tailored communications and benefits.

•Build CQEL’s presence through social media, public speaking, and other outreach efforts.

Advocacy and Policy Development

• Advocate for policies and initiatives that support childcare leaders and promote high-quality early learning in California.

• Build relationships with policymakers, community leaders, and stakeholders to drive CQEL’s advocacy agenda.

Qualifications

Required Skills and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Public Policy, Nonprofit Management, or a related field

• Minimum of 5 years of leadership experience in nonprofit management, advocacy, or early childhood education.

• Proven ability to develop and execute strategic plans and organizational initiatives.

• Experience with fundraising, including grant writing and donor cultivation.

• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting and reporting.

• Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to inspire diverse stakeholders

• Strong technological skills, maintaining the online presence of CQEL.

Preferred Attributes:

• Passion for early childhood education and a deep understanding of the challenges facing childcare leaders in California.

• Knowledge of California childcare policies, licensing regulations, and quality improvement frameworks.

• Track record of successfully advocating for policy changes or securing public funding.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience, range is $70,000 to $80,000 per year with bonuses based on performance.

• Paid time off and holidays.

• Opportunities for professional development and networking within the early learning and nonprofit sectors.

• Location: Remote in Sacramento, California, or Bay Area, California with travel for events, local and national advocacy, and board engagements

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume and three professional references to hiring@caqualityearlylearning.org. Please include “Program Manager Application” in the subject line.

CQEL is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those with diverse lived experiences, that align with our mission to promote equity in early childhood education.