RAFAKidz Nurseries Operations Manager (South)

JR United Kingdom; Oxford; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading organization in early childhood education seeks an Operations Manager (South) for RAFAKidz Nurseries. This strategic role involves overseeing multiple nursery locations, ensuring compliance, driving quality improvement, and managing operational performance. Candidates should possess robust leadership experience in childcare settings and a relevant qualification, alongside strong communication and analytical skills.

Benefits

33 days annual leave including public holidays

Electric company car

Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

Flexible working and travel support

Qualifications

• Significant experience managing a large group of early years settings.
• In-depth knowledge of EYFS, OFSTED, and legislation.
• Proven track record of leading high performing teams.

Responsibilities

• Oversee operational performance of multiple nurseries.
• Ensure compliance with EYFS and legislation.
• Manage budgets and financial sustainability.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical skills

Communication

Education

Degree-level early year’s qualification

Job description

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RAFAKidz Nurseries Operations Manager (South), oxford district

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Client:

RAF Association

Location:

oxford district, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Views:

3

Posted:

26.06.2025

Expiry Date:

10.08.2025

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Job Description:

Operations Manager (South) – RAFAKidz Nurseries

Location: National travel required (UK driving licence essential)

Package: Includes electric company car

Base: Leicester HQ (with weekly national travel and overnight stays)

About RAFAKidz

RAFAKidz is on a mission to provide exceptional, affordable childcare tailored to the unique needs of Armed Forces and civilian families. With nurseries located on or near RAF and MOD stations across the UK, we are proud to be fully OFSTED-registered and committed to safeguarding, quality, and excellence. We work closely with children, families, and partner organisations to ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive. Our strong ties to the RAF and the RAF Association help us deliver a curriculum and environment that supports the needs of serving families.

The Role

As Operations Manager (South), you will lead the strategic and operational delivery of RAFAKidz nurseries across your region. Reporting to the Executive Director of RAFAKidz, you will lead a team of Nursery Managers to effectively embed our vision, values, and standards of excellence.

This is a strategic leadership role requiring a strong business mindset, a passion for early years education, and a hands-on approach. You will:

• Oversee the operational performance and development of multiple RAFAKidz nursery settings.
• Ensure compliance with the EYFS and all Statutory Frameworks and Legislation.
• Drive quality improvement and best practice across your region.
• Manage budgets, occupancy, staffing, and financial sustainability.
• Provide exceptional organisational leadership, mentoring, professional development and inspirationalline management to Nursery Managers.
• Drive improvement in customer service, stakeholder satisfaction and employee engagement, retention and performance across your region.
• Represent RAFAKidz in partnerships with external agencies and stakeholders.

A full role profile and person specification is available at www.rafakidz.org.uk.

About You

We are looking for a confident, business focused and experienced multi-site leader with a proven record of success in the following areas;

• Significant experience managing a large group of early years settings (10 or more)
• In-depth knowledge of the EYFS, OFSTED, and statutory and legislative frameworks.
• A proven track record of leading and developing high performing teams across a wide geographical remit.
• Strong analytical and reporting skills
• Excellent communication and influencing abilities.
• A relevant early year’s qualification (degree-level preferred).

What We Offer

• A rewarding role in a values-driven organisation.
• 33 days annual leave (including public holidays and Christmas closure).
• Electric company car.
• Free on-site parking and shower facilities.
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
• Flexible working and travel support.

How to Apply

To apply, please ensure your CV is up to date and clearly demonstrates how your experience aligns with the role. A cover letter outlining your interest and suitability is strongly encouraged. For an informal chat about the role, call us on 0800 018 2361.

Apply via our website www.rafakidz.org.ukClosing date 8am Monday 7 July

Please note important dates below

First stage online interviews 22 and 24 July

RAFAKidz and the RAF Association are proud to be Disability Confident Employers. If you require any adjustments during the application process, please let us know.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK as we are unable to offer sponsorship