CLIENT SUMMARY

Cresthill Academy exists to provide the best foundational early childhood education so that today’s children grow into empathetic, intellectually curious, diplomatic, and entrepreneurial leaders. Founded in 2010 by Christina Dorando, Cresthill has grown into six thriving locations across New Jersey, serving over 600 children.

The Cresthill culture is anchored in the Cresthill Compass:

• Safety (true north) – the foundation of everything; without it, children cannot learn or thrive.
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• Courtesy – servant leadership marked by respect and humility.
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• Enlightenment – continual learning for children, staff, and parents alike.
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• Efficiency – excellent stewardship of time and resources.

Cresthill is on a strong growth trajectory, with additional leadership roles and school expansions planned over the next 12–18 months. The organization is committed to both quality and growth as it continues to expand its impact.

POSITION OBJECTIVE

The Center Director will lead the Hoboken South campus, ensuring safety, compliance, enrollment growth, and staff engagement. This role is central to rebuilding and strengthening the culture at this location, following past leadership challenges.

Reporting to the Regional Director, the Center Director will serve as both the operational and cultural leader of the school—building trust with parents, developing and holding staff accountable, and ensuring the center runs with excellence and alignment to the Cresthill Compass.

Long term, this leader may grow into higher-level roles such as Regional Director, VP, or SVP, as Cresthill expands.

POSITION KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Enrollment Growth & Retention – Strengthen and sustain healthy enrollment by leading tours, converting prospective families, and building long-term parent trust.
• Safety & Compliance – Ensure full compliance with NJ childcare licensing standards and Cresthill’s internal standards (e.g., fire drills, background checks).
• Culture & Staff Leadership – Build and sustain a healthy, accountable staff culture; coach and develop teachers while addressing issues with confidence and fairness.
• Parent & Family Relations – Serve as the primary contact for families; communicate proactively, clearly, and empathetically to ensure parent satisfaction.
• Operations Oversight – Oversee building safety, efficiency, and daily operations, partnering with the Admin Assistant and Regional Director.
• Communication – Model excellent communication that explains not only the “what” but also the “why,” creating win-win-win outcomes for staff, families, and Cresthill.

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE NEEDED

• Education: Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.
• Leadership Experience: Prior Director or Assistant Director experience in a reputable childcare/early education center 
• Communication: Proven ability to communicate clearly and effectively with staff, parents, and families; skilled at both proactive and empathetic communication.
• Organizational Strength: Demonstrated success in creating and managing systems, handling compliance requirements, and staying ahead of operational needs.
• People Leadership: Experience leading, coaching, and developing teams while holding them accountable to high standards.
• Decision-Making & Problem Solving: Ability to balance empathy with firmness in addressing staff or parent concerns; confident in making and upholding difficult decisions.
• Time Management: Skilled in prioritizing across enrollment, staff oversight, compliance, and parent relations in a fast-paced environment.
• Values Alignment: Track record of modeling integrity and embodying organizational values—especially Safety, Courtesy, Enlightenment, and Efficiency.
• Experience Range: 5–10 years of related professional experience with evidence of growth, tenure, and stability in prior roles.