Project Director

Are you a strategic leader with a passion for growth, innovation, and transforming the landscape of early childhood education? Shine Early Learning. is looking for a dynamic Project Director to drive our mission to eliminate the gaps between young children’s potential and their success in school and life.

Why Acelero? Our mission is bold: To design and deliver research and evidence-based approaches to eliminate the gaps between young childrenʼs inherent potential and their achievement in school and life. With our partners, we accelerate child and family outcomes that honor all of the aspirations and cultures of the communities we serve.

Our values: Data-Informed Learning; Transparent & Open Communication; Growth Mindset; Championing Equality; Caring Teams & Communities.

**A Note About This Opportunity: Shine Early Learning is preparing for an exciting new opportunity to expand its impact and support children and families in Maine. As we take steps toward this anticipated partnership, we are moving forward with recruitment to identify talented Maine based individuals who are interested in being part of this work. While final confirmation of the award is still pending, we will keep candidates informed as the process progresses. We appreciate your interest in Shine Early Learning and look forward to staying connected throughout the process. **

Your Role:

As the Project Director, you will be the senior leadership presence for Shine Early Learning's Maine Professional Development Network contract with the Maine Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Child and Family Services. In this role you will be accountable for all aspects of contract performance, serve as the primary liaison to OCFS, oversee all PDN staff and subcontractors, manage the contract budget, and ensure Shine's services align with Maine's early care and education strategic priorities. The Director cultivates and maintains relationships with OCFS, USM, CCIDS, Maine AEYC, and Maine's broader early childhood community to advance the quality and accessibility of professional development across the state.

What You’ll Do:

• Serve as Shine's primary point of contact with the OCFS contract administrator and all state-level stakeholders for the Maine PDN contract
• Provide overall leadership, management, and accountability for all aspects of contract performance including training, Registry, QRIS, credentialing, consumer education, advisory structure, and reporting functions
• Manage the overall contract budget and ensures all expenditures align with the approved cost proposal and state contracting requirements
• Sign and submit all required reports to OCFS including the Annual Report, Provider Packet, and Data Report
• Lead semi-annual partnership review meetings with USM and CCIDS and maintains the formal MOU relationship with both institutions
• Oversee the Maine PDN Advisory Council, convening formal meetings at least three times per year and ensuring advisory input is integrated into service planning
• Represent Shine at statewide early childhood education conferences, partner convenings, and OCFS-directed stakeholder meetings
• Conduct monthly performance management reviews against all three mandatory performance measures with all managers
• Participate in assigned meetings, events, and training as required

Supervision

• Supervise all PDN staff directly or through the Training Manager and Data and Evaluation Manager; includes hiring, onboarding, performance management, and professional development
• Educate direct reports on all department and agency policies and procedures
• Meet with assigned staff at least monthly to identify and resolve problems, manage projects, track goals, and review work processes
• Notify OCFS within five business days of any vacancy in a critical staff position and implements interim coverage arrangements

What You Bring:

1. Master's degree required in Early Childhood Education, Public Administration, Nonprofit Management, or a closely related field
2. Minimum of seven years of progressive leadership experience in early childhood education, professional development systems, or workforce development
3. Demonstrated experience managing complex, multi-stakeholder contracts with state government agencies
4. Familiarity with CCDF policy and the federal requirements governing state professional development systems
5. Experience working in or with rural states and diverse provider populations strongly preferred
6. Physical exam and background checks are required for this position
7. Travel required locally or long-distance up to 20% of the time for work-related meetings and functions
8. Must have a valid driver's license and reliable transportation
9. Maine residency required

When/Where/How Much:

When: Spring 2027 Where: Remote in Maine with 20% travel How Much: The range for this position is $100,000 - $105,000 annually

Why You’ll Love Working with Us:

• A meaningful mission that drives real change in the lives of children and families
• A collaborative, inclusive team that values your growth and well-being
• Robust benefits that support your total wellbeing, including:
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance with multiple plan options to fit your needs
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contributions up to $400/individuals & $800/family annually
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for health and dependent care expenses
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with up to 3% company match
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability and Basic Life Insurance
• Up to $500 per year in Professional Development Reimbursements
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with counseling and mental wellness support
• Wellness Programs, including virtual fitness, nutrition, and mindfulness classes
• Pet Insurance, Legal Assistance, ID Theft Protection, and Employee Discount Perks

If you’re ready to take on a challenge that matters and lead growth in a company where purpose and values drive every decision, apply now to join us as our next Project Director. Together, we’ll help every child reach their fullest potential!

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