Program Manager

**JOB SUMMARY**

The Program Manager will often work independently and in collaboration with the ECE teachers to provide high-quality, caring, safe, and supportive programs at Into the Woods (ITW). This must take into account and address individualized child social, emotional, cognitive, and physical needs, meet all regulatory standards required by federal, provincial and municipal governments, and operates within the licensing regulations as overseen by the Vancouver Island Health Authority (VIHA).

The hourly rate of pay is $27.50/hour (plus $6/hour Wage Enhancement = $33.50/hour).

This position reports to the ITW Executive Director.

The managers requires personal and programmatic reflection, collaboration with teachers, volunteers, and parents, open dialogue about children’s progress, and interfacing with ITW’s community partners. The managers may also be required to write content, provide data, or other supplemental information to assist in the grant-writing process. Specific targets and goals for grant tracking and evaluation may also be required.

**DESIRED COMPETENCIES & BEHAVIOURS**

This position requires a blend of qualifications that span having sound knowledge about early childhood
- Believes in and practices the philosophy, values, and goals of ITW
- Is committed to fully understanding the daycare’s policies and is responsible of ensuring they’re being followed effectively.
- Has a good understanding of the Vancouver Island Heath Authority (VIHA) licensing regulations.
- Has strong leadership abilities, excellent interpersonal, organizational, and time-management skills.
- Has the ability to intervene respectfully with staff if policies or protocols are not being followed.
- Be able to have complicated conversations and conversations that are sensitive or difficult.
- Listen to and speak compassionately with both children and adults
- Is a creative problem solver. Asks others for input when assessing a problem.
- Does not take things personally, has self-reflective abilities on performance critique.
- Is a lifelong learner, who is open to all/any professional development.
- Handles emergencies skillfully and calmly. Is able to take charge to ensure the safety of all staff and children.
- Is passionate about educating children in an environment inspired by nature and natural toys.
- Is self-motivated and self-directed with the flexibility to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team
- Takes initiative and responsibility for their assignments and duties
- Participates in the developing of new ideas and methods for curriculum or program enhancement and has the ability to adjust and adapt to changes
- Has the ability to build trust and positive relationships with staff and families
- Acts as a role model of appropriate behaviour for children, families, teachers, volunteers, and others.
- Acts as a role model of professional behaviour and desired ECE skills and best practises for ECE teachers.
- Helps to assess and mentor ECE teachers, trains new staff, and oversees practicum students.
- Feels comfortable and confident about meeting the needs of children outdoors in all seasons and climates
- Has a strong awareness of risk management and risk assessments, in order to keep all children and adults safe.
- Has the ability to be positive, resilient, self-reflective, and maintains a sense of humour when personal resources are challenged
- Is creative and innovative when it comes to providing quality programming within a limited budget
- Maintains timely and accurate files
- Has the physical, emotional, and mental stamina to withstand full days of activities five days a week.
- The physical ability to perform all assigned tasks including walking, bending, crouching, standing for extended periods of time, and lifting items is important.

**Most Desirable Personal Qualities**:

- Love of children
- Love of nature and knowledge of the local flora and fauna
- Strong work ethic and reliability
- A professional demeanour and an interest in professional growth
- An honest, kind, and positive team attitude. The interpersonal skills necessary to work successfully within teams
- Committed to being a life-long learner whose passion for teaching engages and inspires children
- A positive, outgoing, and friendly attitude towards children, parents, and other staff
- The ability to think creatively and innovatively, with reflective practice, in order to continue to improve the operations and programs
- An understanding of the issues that affect children and their families
- Self-motivated and proactive when dealing with conflicts
- Excellent communication skills in both oral and written
- Flexibility, be open minded, and willing to work with new initiatives
- Ability to laugh, remain calm, and persevere when faced with challenges
- Patience, kindness, and empathy towards others

**Required Qualifications**:

- Must be over 19 years of age
- Hold Canadian residency and/or be legally entitled to w