Join the Goddard Systems, LLC (GSL) corporate team and help shape a nationally recognized leader in early childhood education! GSL supports approximately 675+ Goddard School locations across the U.S., helping franchisees deliver high-quality, play-based learning to more than 100,000 children and families. Our corporate team drives the strategy, systems, and support that enable schools across the network to thrive.
Position Summary:
The Regional Manager, Health and Safety provides strong leadership to a team of regional Health and Safety Specialists, guiding and influencing franchisees to consistently adhere to GSL's quality assurance program. This role maintains a safe, healthy, nurturing environment for children in the program while ensuring full compliance with health and safety standards, coaching the team, and using data to reduce risk across the region. By keeping schools safe and compliant, this role supports our mission of creating joyful, supportive environments where children flourish, living out our value of Grow Together.
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership
Lead, mentor, and support a diverse team to achieve departmental goals and foster professional growth
Communicate clearly and effectively with all stakeholders, ensuring transparency and open dialogue
Cultivate a positive work environment that encourages collaboration, innovation, and accountability
Identify and implement initiatives that improve team performance and operational efficiency
Empower team members to take ownership of their portfolio and projects
Collaborate with Regional Directors to support schools and team members in achieving performance goals
Facilitate franchisee training within the region to influence and educate stakeholders on health and safety compliance
Provide oversight of health and safety training for new schools opening in the region Team Professional Development
Coach and develop the skill set of Health and Safety Specialists to better assess and support portfolio performance
Travel with team members to observe the QA process in action and role-model best practices
Provide regular feedback that inspires continuous improvement and open dialogue Decision-Making and Problem-Solving
Make informed, data-driven decisions to navigate challenges and maximize opportunities
Analyze and address issues in a timely manner, demonstrating adaptability in complex situations
Conduct data analysis to identify trends and risks within the region, markets, and schools, creating plans to reduce identified risk Core Skills (Must-Have)
People leadership coaching and developing a team of Health and Safety Specialists
Influence and change management, driving franchisee compliance without direct authority
Data-driven risk analysis, translating trends into action plans
Conflict management and sound judgment under complex, sensitive situations Supporting Skills (Nice-to-Have)
Relationship-building across franchisees, schools, and Regional Directors
Presentation and training delivery skill
Organizational and time management discipline across a multi-site portfolio
Minimum Requirements:
At least 3 years of experience working in an early childhood program, industry, or setting in a leadership role, or in franchise operations with business experience
At least 3 years of experience influencing, enforcing, and measuring compliance standards
At least 2 years of experience managing a portfolio of clients, sites, or projects
Knowledgeable in state childcare licensing regulations across the system
Proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite and virtual meeting technology
Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood, Elementary Education, or a related field, preferred
Ability to travel up to 60%Success in This Role
The regional team of Health and Safety Specialists is well-coached and performing consistently across their portfolios
Franchisees in the region demonstrate strong, sustained compliance with health and safety standards
Data-driven risk plans are in place and showing measurable reduction in identified risks
Physical Requirements:
Ability to travel regularly, including by car and air, up to 60% of the time
Ability to walk school facilities, including classrooms and playgrounds, during QA visits
Ability to sit for extended periods while working at a computer or traveling
Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, or physical requirements associated with the position. There will be periodic requirements to travel for in-person events, at the discretion of your manager or the requirement of the company