Territory Operating Partner

Role Overview 

The Territory Operating Partner (TOP) is a senior, multi-site operating leader responsible for the performance of a defined territory of early childhood education centers. This role carries direct accountability for enrollment, operations, financial performance, and people leadership across multiple locations. 

The TOP is expected to operate the territory as a standalone business within the company’s framework — with ownership of results, authority to make day-to-day operating decisions, and accountability for outcomes. While supported by corporate resources and standards, the TOP functions as the primary operator and decision-maker for the territory. 

This role is designed for leaders who are comfortable operating with substantial autonomy, clear performance expectations, and direct accountability for results. 

Scope of Responsibility 

The Territory Operating Partner has operating ownership of the assigned territory, including: 

• Enrollment growth, occupancy, and retention performance 

• Operational execution, quality, and licensing compliance 

• Territory-level financial performance, cost control, and staffing efficiency 

• Hiring, development, and performance management of Center Directors 

• Execution of company priorities at the local level 

This is not a traditional oversight or administrative role. Success requires treating the territory as an operating business, proactively identifying issues, and independently driving solutions. 

Key Responsibilities 

Territory Performance & Growth 

• Own enrollment, occupancy, and retention results across all assigned centers. 

• Develop and execute territory-level growth and enrollment strategies aligned with revenue targets. 

• Monitor performance metrics and implement corrective actions when results fall short. 

Operational Leadership & Compliance 

• Ensure consistent daily operational execution across centers, including staffing, ratios, safety, and quality standards. 

• Maintain compliance with state licensing and regulatory requirements. 

• Conduct operational audits and oversee corrective action plans as needed. 

Financial Oversight 

• Manage territory-level budgets, staffing models, and key operating metrics. 

• Review P&L statements and understand the operational drivers behind financial performance. 

• Forecast enrollment, staffing, and resource needs; proactively manage risks and tradeoffs. 

People Leadership & Talent Development 

• Recruit, hire, and develop Center Directors in partnership with Talent Acquisition. 

• Provide ongoing coaching, feedback, and performance management. 

• Build a culture of accountability, professionalism, and continuous improvement. 

Decision-Making & Leadership 

• Make timely, well-reasoned operational and business decisions within established guardrails. 

• Balance autonomy with alignment to company standards, compliance requirements, and strategic priorities. 

• Escalate issues appropriately while retaining ownership of execution. 

Ideal Candidate Profile 

This role is best suited for leaders who think and operate like business owners, even within a larger organization. 

Successful candidates typically demonstrate: 

• A strong ownership mindset and comfort being accountable for results 

• Experience operating multi-site businesses with financial responsibility 

• Sound judgment and discipline in decision-making 

• Ability to lead independently while collaborating effectively with corporate partners 

Qualifications 

• 5–10 years of experience in multi-site operations, general management, or business leadership roles. 

• Demonstrated success driving enrollment, revenue growth, or customer-facing performance. 

• Financial acumen, including budgeting, staffing models, and P&L review. 

• Experience leading and developing managers across multiple locations. 

• Bachelor’s degree required; MBA or advanced degree preferred. 

• Experience in early childhood education, franchised businesses, or regulated service industries is a plus. 

Work Environment 

• Regular travel between centers within the assigned territory. 

• Active presence in school environments and administrative offices. 

• On-site leadership role requiring direct engagement with teams. 

Equal Employment Opportunity 

Child Development Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or any other protected status.