Operations Manager

Bright Stars Nursery Group; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading nursery group in the United Kingdom is seeking an Operations Manager to lead multiple nursery settings across Bristol. The ideal candidate will oversee operational performance, ensuring compliance and high standards in childcare. Responsibilities include mentoring managers, monitoring resources, and implementing best practices. This role requires a strong leader with extensive experience in early years education. The company offers competitive benefits including childcare discounts, medical cover, and opportunities for professional development.

Benefits

75% Childcare discount

Paycare Medical Cover

Gym discounts

Shopping discounts

Referral bonus

Regular training programs

33 days holiday including bank holidays

Qualifications

• Minimum Level 3 qualification in Early Years Education.
• Proven experience managing multiple nursery settings.
• Strong knowledge of EYFS and compliance standards.
• Excellent leadership and organisational skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee operational performance of multiple nurseries.
• Lead and inspire managers to achieve excellence.
• Monitor occupancy, staffing, budgets, and resources.
• Implement consistent policies and best practices.
• Collaborate on strategic growth and quality audits.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organisational skills

Knowledge of EYFS

Solution-focused mindset

Education

Level 3 qualification in Early Years Education

Level 5/6 management qualification

Job description

Job description

We’re looking for a dedicated Operations Manager to lead and support our growing team across multiple sites across Bristol and the surrounding areas.

Bright Stars Nursery Group is more than just a group of individual nurseries; we are a close-knit community of passionate professionals committed to making a positive impact on the lives of children and families. Our ethos drives us to provide exceptional care, education, and support, ensuring that every child’s journey with us is filled with love, joy, and unlimited opportunities.

Our vision is to provide a nurturing and inspiring environment where every child can shine and reach their full potential. We aim to be a leading provider of high-quality early childhood education, creating a positive impact on the lives of children and their families. Through a child-centered approach, we will empower children to become confident, independent, and compassionate individuals. We will celebrate diversity, promote cultural understanding, and teach values of respect, kindness, and empathy.

The Role

As our Nursery Operations Manager, you’ll play a pivotal role in ensuring every setting runs smoothly, safely, and in line with our high standards. You’ll oversee the day-to-day operational excellence of our nurseries, mentor managers, and drive quality improvements that enrich the experiences of children, families, and staff alike.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the operational performance of multiple nursery settings, ensuring compliance with Ofsted, EYFS, and all regulatory requirements.
• Lead, coach, and inspire Nursery Managers to achieve excellence in childcare, team development, and parent engagement.
• Monitor occupancy, staffing, budgets, and resources to meet business goals and maintain outstanding quality.
• Implement consistent policies and best practices across the group.
• Collaborate with senior leadership on strategic growth, quality audits, and continuous improvement plans.
• Foster a culture of care, professionalism, and positivity throughout the organisation.

About You

You’re an experienced, hands‑on leader with a passion for early years education and operational excellence. You thrive in a people‑focused environment and can balance business performance with a genuine commitment to children’s wellbeing.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Minimum Level 3 qualification in Early Years Education (Level 5/6 or relevant management qualification preferred).
• Proven experience managing or overseeing multiple nursery settings or large‑scale childcare operations.
• Strong knowledge of EYFS, safeguarding, and compliance standards.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills.
• A collaborative, solution‑focused mindset with an eye for quality and detail.

What We Offer

• 75% Childcare discount.
• Paycare Medical Cover -contributions towards everything from dental and optical cover to free same‑day GP appointments and Lifestyle Assessment.
• MyGym / MyActive discounts – up to 25% off your monthly gym fees and from all your gym clothing and equipment. All types of gyms covered, from David Lloyds to your local council‑run leisure centre.
• Paycare Perks – shopping discounts from over 300 High Street stores including Sainsburys, John Lewis, H&M, Boots and New Look.
• Recommend a Friend – earn up to £1,500 for each recruit once you join us by recommending us to others you know.
• Training and Development benefit from our sector-leading, regular training programmes that helps us ensure every child in our care has the very best start for their lifetime of learning.
• Plus 33 days holiday including bank holidays.

How to Apply

If you’re a motivated, passionate professional ready to take the next step in your childcare leadership career, we’d love to hear from you.