Director, Policy and Compliance

Are you a systems-focused leader with deep expertise in regulatory compliance, policy development, and early childhood program operations? Acelero, Inc. is seeking a dynamic Director of Policy and Compliance 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.

Your Role:

The Director of Policy and Compliance serves as the organization’s content expert and system lead for policy development, regulatory alignment, and compliance tools across Acelero, Inc. This role is responsible for ensuring that all organization-wide policies, procedures, and compliance frameworks are clear, consistent, and aligned with Head Start regulations, state and local licensing requirements, and internal standards. The Director works closely with Directors of Monitoring & Compliance (DMCs), who are supervised by Delegate Vice Presidents (DVPs), to ensure effective implementation and operational integration of national compliance practices at the delegate level.

This role does not supervise the DMCs, but functions as a centralized leader responsible for designing tools and training, establishing clear expectations, and monitoring fidelity of implementation. The Director also oversees professional learning and resource development for DMCs and PSI, and guides other central and delegate leaders to implement shared compliance priorities.

What You’ll Do:

• Lead the full lifecycle of policy development, including research, stakeholder engagement, drafting, and dissemination of compliance tools and procedures.

• Maintain ownership of centralized checklists, SOPs, and guidance materials that inform compliance-related operations.

• Monitor and adapt to federal, state, and local regulatory changes to ensure policies remain current and audit-ready.

• Serve as the primary liaison to delegate leaders and governing bodies, ensuring centralized policies align with local program needs and regulatory environments.

• Guide local Directors of Monitoring & Compliance (DMCs) in addressing licensing requirements, operational challenges, and incident response.

• Oversee incident root cause analysis and co-create corrective action plans to mitigate risk and support compliance.

• Collaborate with delegates and internal teams to co-develop annual scopes of work, implementation plans, and improvement strategies.

• Lead compliance-related training, onboarding, and coaching for DMCs and cross-functional teams.

• Design and manage systems for tracking policy adherence, compliance indicators, and continuous improvement efforts.

• Represent the Policy & Compliance function in governance meetings, national monitoring reviews, and cross-departmental initiatives.

• Supervise and support department staff, overseeing project execution, professional development, and alignment with organizational goals.

What You Bring:

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in public policy, early childhood education, or a related field is a strong asset.

• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in policy development, regulatory compliance, or program administration, with at least two (2) years in a supervisory role.

• Demonstrated experience with Head Start or similar federally funded early childhood programs is required.

• Experience navigating multi-state licensing frameworks is strongly desired.

• Understanding of licensing regulations and regulatory risk mitigation.

• Strong policy writing, analysis, and revision skills with the ability to integrate compliance, legal, and additional considerations.

When/Where/How Much:

When: Summer 2025

Where: Remote position with travel required locally or long-distance work-related meetings and site support.

How Much: $90,000 - $100,000

Application closing date: July 16, 2025

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 Director of Policy and Compliance. Together, we’ll help every child reach their fullest potential!

Email Talent Acquisition Partner: morourke@acelero.net

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