Centre Director

Nido Early School; Geelong; On-site; AUD 110,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Impact that matters

Growth opportunities

Belonging & recognition

Balance & wellbeing

Childcare discounts

FlareHR perks

Job summary

Nido Highton is seeking an Executive Service Manager (Centre Director) to lead a thriving new service and inspire teams to deliver exceptional early childhood experiences. You’ll mentor educators, build meaningful connections with families, and champion child safety and high standards.

As Centre Director, you’ll oversee rostering, budgeting, and compliance while partnering with the local community. A strong background in EYLF/NQS and a commitment to mentoring and growth are essential.

Qualifications

• Diploma or Bachelor in Early Childhood Education (ACECQA recognised).
• Minimum 2 years leadership experience in the sector.
• Strong knowledge of EYLF and NQS.
• Excellent mentoring and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Mentor, guide and support educators to deliver excellence.
• Oversee rostering, budgeting, and compliance.
• Build strong partnerships with families and community.
• Lead by example with consistency, respect and collaboration.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Communication

Family engagement

Education

Diploma/Bachelor in Early Childhood Education (ACECQA recognised)

Job description

Education & Childcare Services Geelong Permanent / Full Time

Ready to lead something special?

At Nido Highton, we're seeking an Executive Service Manager (Centre Director) to inspire teams, build meaningful family connections, and shape a thriving new service where every child gets the best start in life. Because when every day matters for children, it should matter for you too.

Why you’ll love working with us

When you join Nido, you’re joining more than a workplace - you’re becoming part of a community. We understand the pressures of leadership, and we’re here to provide the recognition, balance, and growth opportunities that help you thrive.

• Impact that matters– Every day, you’ll shape the lives of children and families.
• Support for your growth– Access tailored professional development, mentoring, and leadership programs.
• Belonging and recognition– We celebrate collaboration, recognise achievements, and foster inclusivity.
• Balance and wellbeing– Flexible scheduling, wellbeing initiatives, and mental health support are part of our promise.
• Everyday benefits– childcare discounts, access to exclusive learning platforms, we make sure you’re looked after too.
• FlareHR –Access to great savings and perks across many retailers including groceries, fashion and gifts as well as health insurance, energy bills and home internet

The role: Centre Director

In this role, you’ll set the vision and inspire others. You’ll be hands‑on in mentoring your team, and building meaningful relationships with families.

• Mentor, guide and support your educators to deliver excellence.
• Oversee operations including rostering, budgeting, and compliance.
• Build strong, trusting partnerships with families and the community.
• Lead by example in demonstrating consistency, respect, intentionality, collaboration and speaking up.

What you’ll bring

We’re seeking a leader who combines knowledge with empathy. Someone who understands that strong teams are built on trust, and that quality education comes from inspiring leadership.

• Diploma or Bachelor in Early Childhood Education (ACECQA recognised).
• At least 2 years’ leadership experience in the sector.
• Solid knowledge of EYLF and NQS.
• Strong mentoring and communication skills.
• Valid Police Check (or willing to obtain)
• WWCC and First Aid Certificate (or willingness to obtain).
• Please note:Any candidate employed from 1 April must provide a certificate confirming completion of the Federally mandated ‘National Child Safety Training’ via Geccko,ormust be willing to obtain prior to employment.

Every day matters. You matter.

Nido Early School is a Child Safe Organisation. We have a zero tolerance to child abuse, and are committed to the safety, participation, and empowerment of all children.We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome all applicants.