THE OPPORTUNITY
Background
Memphis and Shelby County have made substantial progress in expanding early care and education in recent years, including expanding pre-kindergarten access across the community. However, this progress is at risk due to a shortage of qualified early childhood providers and educators. To address this critical workforce need, First 8 Memphis convened a multi-agency workgroup of local nonprofit organizations, institutions of higher education, and one local school district to develop a comprehensive plan to recruit, train, and retain a diverse early care and education (ECE) workforce. The strategy leverages the work group's knowledge and resources. It aligns efforts toward a common goal: cultivating and nurturing a pipeline of well-prepared ECE educators in Memphis and Shelby County.
Position Description
Memphis and Shelby County are facing a critical shortage of early childhood educators, limiting the region’s ability to expand high-quality early learning opportunities. The Senior Manager of Early Childhood Workforce Strategy will be pivotal in addressing this challenge by leading a cross-sector strategy to grow and strengthen the ECE workforce.
This role will be a strategic connector and facilitator between high schools, higher education institutions (including community colleges, trade schools, and universities), early learning providers, and community-based organizations. The Senior Manager will coordinate a collaborative workgroup of stakeholders and manage the implementation of the ECE workforce strategic framework that increases pathways into the profession, supports current educators, and improves long-term learning outcomes for children.
The ideal candidate brings a mix of strategic thinking, community partnership, and project management experience, and is passionate about driving systems change to address educational inequities in under-resourced communities.
Responsibilities
- Strategy Implementation & Planning
- Workgroup Coordination & Systems Alignment
- Partnership Development
- Pipeline Expansion
- Data & Reporting
- Communications & Outreach
- Other Duties
Experience Requirements
- Proven experience in early care and education or a related field preferred.
- In-depth knowledge of the ECE workforce, including challenges, needs, and trends in Memphis-Shelby County and nationally.
Education Requirements
- A degree in early childhood or a relevant field (e.g., education, public administration) is required, and at least ten years of work experience is required.
- Master’s degree preferred.
To apply, please submit your application using the application link. Email all questions to [email protected]