Data and Continuous Quality Improvement Director - Educare Chicago : Job Details

Start Early is an energized, future-focused organization devoted to providing quality early learning and care across the country.

Our desire to close the opportunity gap and build more inclusive early learning experiences for our youngest learners guides everything we do. As a leader in early learning and care, we scale our deep expertise across program, policy, and research through partnerships across the country.

We are recruiting individuals who want to join us in this mission and share a commitment to our core values of appreciation & respect, empowerment, diversity, excellence, learning, and communication.

Become part of our rewarding, mission-driven culture! We want our employees to feel empowered, motivated, energized, and passionate about the work they do!

In partnership with the Vice President, EHSN, the Data and Continuous Quality Improvement Director provides strategic leadership in designing, implementing, and continuously improving EHSN's data infrastructure. This role is responsible for building and maintaining high-quality, user-centered data systems that support compliance, performance monitoring, and strategic decision-making across the network.

The Director co-leads research and evaluation partnerships, ensuring data is translated into actionable insights and shared effectively with internal teams, external partners, and diverse audiences. They play a key role in advancing CQI practices, embedding a culture of data use and learning throughout the organization. The Director also represents Start Early and EHSN in key collaborations, ensuring data systems and insights inform early childhood policy, funding, and practice at local and state levels.

Reporting to the Vice President of Early Head Start Network:

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE, AND EDUCATION:

• Doctorate in Child Development, Human Development and Family Studies, Education, Psychology, or related field.
• 7-10 years of experience designing and implementing data systems ensuring data integrity.
• 5+ years supervisory experience leading data teams, with expertise in data monitoring, analysis, and communication of findings.
• Experience with data visualization and BI platforms like Tableau, PowerBI, Google Data Studio, etc.
• Experience managing data within Head Start/Early Head Start context, including oversight of compliance and performance monitoring.
• Strong understanding of data concepts, with ability to translate data into actionable insights.
• Ability to synthesize qualitative and quantitative data, and to lead in group and coalition settings.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel, and familiarity with survey and analytical software; SharePoint experience preferred.

Grade: 19

This position offers a competitive salary within a broad range, dependent on skills and experience. Benefits include comprehensive health plans, diversity and inclusion initiatives, wellness programs, professional development, 401k, paid volunteer days, parental leave, and more.

Start Early is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all staff.