Senior Childcare Operations Manager

Placements24; Southampton; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 58,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and bonus structure

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Generous paid time off and holidays

Career advancement opportunities

Leadership role within a growing org.

Annual performance reviews

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Childcare Operations Manager to oversee multiple centers in Randburg and surrounding areas. You will lead daily operations, ensure high standards of care, safety, and educational programming across sites, and drive strategic initiatives.

The role requires strong financial management, regulatory knowledge, and a passion for child welfare. Travel between centers is expected as needed, with a focus on staff development and parent relations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Management, Early Childhood Education, or related field.
• Master's degree is a plus.
• 5-7 years of progressive experience in childcare management or multi-site operations.
• Proven leadership in operations, financial management, and strategic planning.
• In-depth knowledge of childcare regulations, licensing, and accreditation standards.
• Strong leadership, team-building, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in budget management, forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Travel between locations as needed.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of multiple childcare centers.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to enhance quality, safety, and profitability.
• Manage budgets, financial performance, and resource allocation for all centers.
• Ensure strict adherence to childcare regulations, licensing, and health and safety standards.
• Lead and support center directors and staff, fostering a positive work environment.
• Drive recruitment, training, professional development, and retention.
• Develop and maintain relationships with parents, community stakeholders, and regulatory bodies.
• Implement quality assurance programs and monitor service delivery continuously.
• Manage facilities maintenance, procurement, and vendor relationships.
• Identify opportunities for operational improvements and cost efficiencies.
• Handle escalated parent or staff concerns and resolve issues.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic Planning

Financial Management

Regulatory Compliance

Staff Development

Communication

Problem Solving

Travel

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Management, Early Childhood Education

Master's degree

Tools

Childcare management software

Microsoft Office / Google Workspace

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and results-oriented Senior Childcare Operations Manager to oversee the successful day-to-day operations of multiple childcare facilities in and around Randburg, Gauteng, ZA . This critical role requires a leader with a strong background in childcare management, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance. You will be responsible for ensuring the highest standards of care, safety, and educational programming across all sites. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional leadership, strategic planning, and financial management skills, coupled with a deep commitment to child welfare and staff development. You will drive operational excellence, manage budgets, lead recruitment and retention efforts, and ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations. This is a challenging yet rewarding opportunity to make a significant impact on the quality of childcare provided by our client in the Randburg area.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of multiple childcare centers, ensuring efficient and effective service delivery.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to enhance quality, safety, and profitability.
• Manage budgets, financial performance, and resource allocation for all assigned centers.
• Ensure strict adherence to all childcare regulations, licensing requirements, and health and safety standards.
• Lead and support center directors and staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Drive initiatives for staff recruitment, training, professional development, and retention.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with parents, community stakeholders, and regulatory bodies.
• Implement quality assurance programs and monitor service delivery continuously.
• Manage facilities maintenance, procurement, and vendor relationships.
• Identify opportunities for operational improvements and cost efficiencies.
• Handle escalated parent or staff concerns and resolve issues promptly and effectively.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Management, Early Childhood Education, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in childcare management or multi-site operations.
• Proven track record of success in operational leadership, financial management, and strategic planning.
• In-depth knowledge of childcare regulations, licensing, and accreditation standards.
• Strong leadership, team-building, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and communication abilities.
• Experience in budget management, forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Proficiency in childcare management software and standard office applications.
• Passion for quality early childhood education and commitment to child welfare.
• Ability to travel between locations as needed.

Benefits

• A highly competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
• Opportunities for significant career advancement and professional development.
• Leadership role within a reputable and growing organization.
• Annual performance reviews with clear paths for growth.
• Supportive management team and collaborative work culture.