Executive Director – Visionary Growth Leader

Early Learning Ventures (ELV) seeks a strategic, entrepreneurial, and mission-driven Executive Director to lead the organization into its next chapter of growth and transformative impact. This is an extraordinary opportunity to guide a high-potential social enterprise operating at the intersection of business strategy, technology innovation, and social impact.

The Executive Director will be responsible for scaling the organization, strengthening its operational and financial sustainability, and expanding its reach to advance early childhood education for children under the age of five. This role requires a leader who combines business-minded expertise with a deep passion for nonprofit work, particularly in the areas of child development and educational equity.

Key Attributes and Qualifications:

Proven Track Record in Organizational Growth: Demonstrated success in leading and accelerating the expansion of mission-driven organizations or technology-enabled enterprises, including experience with strategic planning, revenue diversification, and operational scaling.
Business Acumen with Social Impact Orientation: Strong foundation in business strategy, marketing, branding, and partnership development, coupled with a commitment to advancing early childhood education and supporting small business performance.
Visionary Leadership: Ability to inspire teams, cultivate strategic alliances, and position the organization as a leader in the early childhood education space.
Technology Fluency: Skilled in developing and leveraging technology to meet customer needs, drive operational efficiency, enhance service delivery, and create systemic change within the sector.
Passion for Mission: A genuine dedication to improving outcomes for young children and families, with an understanding of the unique challenges faced by early childhood education providers.

This role is ideal for a dynamic, growth-oriented leader who thrives on innovation and impact, and who can balance strategic vision with hands-on execution

About Early Learning Ventures (ELV)

Early Learning Ventures (ELV) is a nationally recognized, mission-driven nonprofit dedicated to strengthening the childcare ecosystem by equipping providers with innovative technology and operational solutions. Our software suite streamlines administrative processes, ensures regulatory compliance, and expands access to high-quality early childhood education for families and communities.

Founded in 2009 by the David + Laura Merage Foundation, ELV was created to advance the vision of universal access to high-quality early learning. In 2016, ELV became an independent public nonprofit and continues to operate from its headquarters within the Foundation’s offices.

We understand that most childcare providers are small businesses—deeply committed to children yet often lacking the resources to optimize quality and efficiency. ELV addresses this gap through a robust suite of back-office supports, including Alliance CORE, our licensing-compliant childcare management system, designed to reduce administrative burdens and elevate performance for providers of all sizes.

More than a technology provider, ELV pioneered a Child Care Shared Services model that combines operational excellence with technological innovation. Today, this model spans 20 states—and we are poised for significant growth. The incoming Executive Director will lead the charge to accelerate this national expansion and amplify our impact.

As Executive Director, you will:

Define and execute ELV’s strategic vision, ensuring alignment with mission and measurable impact
Accelerate national expansion and growth, operational excellence, and financial sustainability
Recruit, develop, and inspire a high-performing team while fostering a culture of innovation and accountability
Oversee product development, stakeholder engagement, and national scalability
Serve as the primary liaison to the Board of Directors, ensuring transparency and organizational performance

This role demands a bold, forward-thinking leader who thrives in complexity, embraces innovation, and is passionate about creating lasting change for children, families, and communities.

Qualifications

Passion for mission-driven work and improving societal outcomes.
Demonstrated success in scaling operations and growing revenue.
Expertise in marketing, branding, and strategic communications.
Expertise in product development.
Strong strategic thinking, financial acumen, and operational leadership.
Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and team leadership skills
Proven experience in a technology-enabled, high-growth SaaS (Software as a Service), edtech, or mission-driven business.
Nonprofit and for-profit experience preferred.
MBA preferred.

Travel Requirements

Approximately 30% travel domestically.

What Does Early Learning Ventures Have to Offer You?

Excellent benefits (medical, dental, & vision)
Company-paid life insurance
Company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Insurance
401(k) with company match
Company-Paid Employee assistance programs
Paid vacation days
Paid personal days
Paid holidays
Sick Days

Salary Range

$150,000-$170,000 (plus bonus)

Early Learning Venture

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