Job Title: Operations Manager

The Organization: Acelero Learning, South Carolina

Who We Are: Acelero, Inc. is a for-profit, mission-driven company that aims to improve school readiness for low-income children, by both directly operating Head Start programs and offering programmatic support to other Head Start grantees. 

Established in 2001, Acelero, Inc. is made up of two divisions - Acelero Learning and Shine Early Learning. Acelero Learning provides direct Head Start services to more than 5,000 children and families in four states (delegates) – New Jersey, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.  Acelero Learning’s programs have been identified as a national exemplar, a model to the nation for early childhood education, and most significantly, has demonstrated best-in-class child outcomes gains, even during the pandemic.

Shine Early Learning (Shine), established in 2009, was created to scale the dissemination and utilization of Acelero Learning’s proven tools and approaches through partnerships to other Head Start programs nationally.   In the past three years, Shine has further diversified its offerings through training, technical assistance, and consultation to publicly funded early childhood systems, including the launch of SPARK Learning Labs.

Our diverse employee workforce is made up of more than 1500 employees, comprising dedicated teachers, passionate family advocates, dynamic Center Directors and Coordinators, visionary senior leaders, and strategic executive leaders. Shine boasts partnerships across a wide expanse of states and territories throughout the country, ranging from Head Start grantees to comprehensive statewide systems. Together, we form a vibrant community committed to making a difference, fostering growth, and nurturing the potential in every child we serve. 

The Current Landscape: At the forefront of educational innovation, Acelero Inc. is navigating a pivotal phase of strategic transformation, commenced in June 2021, with a clear vision to expand exponentially and dismantle inequities. Guided by the insights and leadership of a diverse and representative national Design Team, the company has meticulously crafted a new vision, mission, and core values, underpinned by a robust theory of change. This strategic evolution involves a deliberate restructuring of the organizational framework, positioning Acelero Inc. to achieve its objectives, and to surpass them significantly. Central to the company's ethos is an unwavering commitment to recognize and nurture every child's potential, ensuring no child is left behind due to systemic inequalities. Acelero Inc. is steadfast in its mission to empower families, fostering their ability to advocate effectively for their children and themselves. This period of transformative growth and commitment to equity presents a unique opportunity to contribute to Acelero Inc.'s journey towards shaping a more inclusive and empowering educational landscape.

The Purpose of the Role:

The Operations Manager is the first point of contact for all external vendors, maintenance, janitorial staff and delegate employees seeking assistance/or support in the areas of day-to-day center and facilities management. The manager will be responsible for managing office functions including daily office operations, database management, records maintenance, and providing general support services to shared service departments (finance, human resources, legal, etc). Additionally, the Operations Manager will manage all outside vendors in support of the Operations department, including maintaining records and contracts, coordinating project activities and providing scheduling support.
 

What You’ll Work On

Implement strategic initiatives to support the Company’s business objectives.

Facilitate communication and action between departments.

Ensure timely and quality service delivery to clients, including customer satisfaction follow-ups.

Support the Director of Operations with external contacts and provide administrative support to the Operations team.

Maintain and update administrative policies, contracts (utilities, cleaning services, etc.), and vendor/contractor records.

Manage purchasing, inventory, and expense reporting for supplies, technology, and equipment.

Oversee transportation fleet, including vehicle maintenance and insurance compliance.

Coordinate meetings and events, ensuring efficient use of resources and technology.

Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information and perform daily clerical tasks.

About You  (Requirements/Competencies) 

A high school diploma, GED, or HSED required. Associate degree preferred.

Minimum of three (3) years of customer service experience required; in a large office environment, or supporting multiple locations, or in a school is a plus.

Experience using databases required; use of a ticketing portal or scheduling software preferred.

Project management experience preferred.

Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) preferred but not required.

Physical exam and background checks are required for this position.

Travel required locally for work and work-related meetings and functions.

When/Where/How Much 

Start Date: Fall 2024

Location/Travel: On-site at one of our South Carolina delegate locations. (Exact address to be provided at a later date)

Salary: $70,000 Annually
 

Please note that this hiring initiative is part of our strategic preparation for a potential new delegate in South Carolina. The continuation of the recruitment process is contingent upon the successful award of this grant. We commit to keeping final candidates informed of our progress and appreciate your interest in joining Acelero Learning. 

It is expected that any hired employee for this potential new delegate be physically located in South Carolina. Tier relocation packages will be provided.

We are an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and healthy workplace.