The WeeWACs Manager is responsible for the leadership, daily operation, and continuous improvement of the Washington Athletic Club's childcare and youth enrichment program. This role ensures the delivery of high-quality, educationally focused programming while maintaining a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for children and families.
The Manager serves as a key partner to the VP of Club Life & Community, contributing ideas that support the Club's family programming strategy, member engagement goals, and long-term vision for WeeWACs. This position oversees staff, manages center operations and technology systems, develops and implements new processes, and supports the growth and evolution of family-focused experiences at the WAC.
Key Responsibilities
· Program Development & Educational Leadership
· Develop, implement, and enhance educationally based programs that support children's cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.
· Create engaging curriculum, enrichment activities, camps, and seasonal programming that reflect best practices in early childhood education.
· Evaluate program effectiveness using member feedback, participation data, and industry trends.
· Ensure all programs meet applicable licensing standards, safety requirements, and Club expectations.
· Identify opportunities to introduce innovative programming that enhances the family member experience.
Operational Management
· Oversee the day-to-day operations of the WeeWACs center, ensuring a safe, welcoming, and organized environment.
· Develop and implement new processes and operating procedures that improve efficiency, communication, and service delivery.
· Monitor staffing, scheduling, enrollment, and resource utilization to ensure operational excellence.
· Maintain compliance with state licensing regulations, club policies, and safety protocols.
· Manage department budgets, supplies, and operational resources responsibly.
Technology & Systems Administration
· Manage childcare management software (which will be new to the WAC) and related systems used for enrollment, attendance tracking, billing, communication, scheduling, and reporting.
· Ensure accurate data management and reporting.
· Train staff on software utilization and operational best practices.
Team Leadership & Staff Development
· Recruit, hire, onboard, and retain a dependable, high-performing team.
· Foster a positive, collaborative, and service-oriented culture.
· Provide coaching, mentorship, and professional development (MERIT) opportunities for staff.
· Conduct performance evaluations and establish clear expectations and accountability.
· Develop staffing plans that ensure appropriate coverage and exceptional service levels.
Member & Family Engagement
· Build strong relationships with children, parents, and caregivers to create an exceptional WeeWACs experience.
· Serve as the primary point of contact for member concerns, feedback, and program recommendations.
· Support membership retention by ensuring programs remain relevant, engaging, and responsive to member needs.
· Promote WeeWACs programs and services throughout the Club community.
Strategic Partnership & Leadership Collaboration
· Partner with the VP of Club Life & Community to identify opportunities for growth, innovation, and enhanced member value.
· Contribute ideas and recommendations that support the Club's family activities committee on engagement and community-building objectives.
· Collaborate with Club leadership and other departments to create integrated family experiences and Club-wide programming.
· Participate in annual planning, budgeting, and goal-setting initiatives.
· Provide regular updates on program performance, participation trends, and operational needs.
Qualifications
· Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Education, Child Development, Recreation Management, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.
· Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible experience in childcare, youth programming, recreation, education, or a related field.
· Demonstrated experience leading teams and managing day-to-day operations.
· Experience developing educational or enrichment-based programming.
· Experience with childcare management software and operational systems.
· Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
· Ability to develop processes, implement change, and manage multiple priorities effectively.
· Knowledge of childcare licensing regulations, safety standards, and risk management practices.
· Passion for creating exceptional experiences for children and families.
Success Measures
· Delivery of engaging, educational, and well-attended programs.
· Strong staff retention, development, and team performance.
· Successful implementation of operational improvements and new processes.
· High member and parent satisfaction ratings.
· Compliance with all licensing and safety requirements.
· Positive collaboration with the VP of Club Life & Community and cross-functional departments.
· Growth in program participation and overall family engagement within the Club.
BENEFIT INFORMATION
· Benefit package for full-time team members: medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability insurance
· Paid Time Off (PTO) – accrues at a rate of .0519 hours per hours worked to a maximum of 108 hours per year
· 9 paid holidays per year
· 401(K) with employer match
· Employee Assistance Program
· ORCA Passport Program
· Pet insurance available
· Free daily meal (soup/salad bar)
· Discount on spa services and products