Description

Position Summary

The Chief Programs Officer (CPO) is a senior executive leader responsible for the administration, oversight, and continuous improvement of the organization’s Head Start and Early Head Start programs, including integrated Family Empowerment Services. Consistent with the Head Start Act and Head Start Program Performance Standards (45 CFR Part 1301–1305), the CPO ensures high-quality, comprehensive, and coordinated services that promote school readiness, strengthen families, and advance positive outcomes for children. As a member of the executive leadership team, the CPO partners with the Executive Director to ensure program integrity, regulatory compliance, and alignment with the organization’s mission and values.

Programs Overseen

        Early Head Start (EHS)

        Head Start (HS)

        Childcare

        Family Empowerment Programs

        Community Services Block Grant

Duties and Responsibilities

Program Administration & Governance - Provide overall leadership and administration of Head Start, Early Head Start, CSBG, Family Empowerment, and childcare programs in accordance with the Head Start Act, Head Start Program Performance Standards and Childcare Licensing guidelines. Ensure effective shared governance by supporting collaboration with the Governing Body and Policy Council, including timely and accurate program reporting. Oversee the development, implementation, and annual review of program plans, policies, and procedures as required under federal regulations. Ensure meaningful family engagement and parent participation consistent with Head Start requirements.

Program Quality, Compliance & Continuous Improvement - Ensure full compliance with all federal, state, and local requirements, including licensing, health and safety standards, and fiscal accountability. Oversee internal and external monitoring systems, state reviews, federal reviews, audits, and corrective action plans. Lead preparations for OHS and CSBG monitoring and audits. Lead continuous quality improvement (CQI) efforts using data from CLASS®, child assessments, family outcomes, and other program measures. Ensure services are developmentally appropriate and aligned with school readiness goals. Model ethical leadership and transparency, acting with integrity in all compliance and reporting activities.

Strategic & Values-Based Leadership - Collaborate as partners with staff, families, community agencies, and funders to deliver coordinated and comprehensive services. Lead in a manner that is supportive by nature, fostering staff growth, accountability, and professional development. Champion a community-centered approach that reflects local needs, strengths, and partnerships. Demonstrate compassion in action in decision-making that impacts children, families, and staff. Pursue exceptional quality through innovation, evidence-based practices, and continuous improvement.

Leadership & Human Capital Development - Directly supervise senior program leaders, including the Director of Early Childhood Programs and the Director of Family Empowerment Programs. Ensure effective staffing patterns, professional development systems, and performance management in accordance with Head Start requirements. Promote a positive organizational climate that supports retention, wellness, and leadership development.

Family & Community Partnerships - Ensure Family Empowerment Services support family well-being, parent engagement, and family self-sufficiency outcomes as outlined in the Head Start Act. Oversee coordinated referrals and partnerships with health, mental health, education, and social service providers. Strengthen community collaborations to expand resources and continuity of services for enrolled families. Represent the organization in community coalitions and advisory bodies as appropriate.

Fiscal Stewardship & Grant Oversight - Collaborate with the Executive Director and fiscal staff to develop, manage, and monitor Head Start and Early Head Start budgets. Ensure program operations align with approved grant applications and funding requirements. Support grant applications, continuation funding, and reporting processes.

Working Conditions

The environment is varied to include the Head Start Support office, Head Start Centers, and various Community Resources.  Must be mobile and agile to perform required tasks such as lifting up to forty-five (45) pounds, reaching above the head and below the knee, or positioning the body as to be on the child’s level and floor level.  Must be able to bend, stop, kneel, crouch, and able to run or walk hurriedly for a child’s safety.

Requirements

Qualifications Required

Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Social Work, Human Services, Public Administration, or a related field.

Minimum of 7–10 years of progressively responsible leadership experience in Head Start, Early Head Start, Early Childhood Administration, or comparable human services programs.

Knowledge of poverty reduction and early childhood systems.

Proven ability to manage complex, federally funded programs and lead multidisciplinary teams.

Qualifications Preferred

Master’s degree in Child Development, Social Work, Human Services, Public Administration, or a related field

Experience supporting shared governance with Policy Council and Governing Body.

Budget and grant management experience in federally funded programs.

Bilingual skills a plus. 

Supervision

Reports to: Executive Director

Supervises: Program Directors, Managers, and Senior Program Staff

Coordinates with: Head Start Management, Agency personnel and other agencies.