Centre Manager (Certificated) St Kilda

Evolve Education Careers; Dunedin; On-site; NZD 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A renowned early childhood education provider in Dunedin is seeking a passionate Centre Manager. In this role, you will lead a dedicated team, enhance the curriculum, and foster community engagement while managing daily operations. The ideal candidate is ECE qualified with strong leadership skills and a people-focused approach. Join a close-knit team and enjoy a competitive salary alongside opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Ongoing professional development

Half-day off for your birthday

Supportive team environment

Qualifications

• Experience leading an early childhood education center.
• Strong people-focused leadership style.
• Able to manage competing priorities effectively.

Responsibilities

• Provide hands-on leadership to team members.
• Enhance the curriculum and community engagement.
• Manage daily operational tasks effectively.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Relationship-building

Problem-solving

Adaptability

Education

ECE Qualification

Full Teaching Registration

Job description

• Beautiful environment, with five well laid out rooms.
• We are licenced for 100 tamariki.
• Leadership with Impact!
• Subsidised childcare for your tamariki.
• Full Pay Parity

At St Kilda Little Wonders, we’re all about heart-led teaching and whānau connections. Our centre thrives on inclusivity, where every child’s culture, language, and identity are not just acknowledged—but celebrated! We believe that when tamariki feel seen and respected, they flourish. That’s why we work hand-in-hand with families to create a warm, welcoming space where every child feels right at home.

Our purpose-built centre is a hive of joyful learning, designed to spark curiosity and support each child’s unique journey. With age-specific rooms and thoughtfully crafted programmes, we nurture a love of learning while encouraging children to grow at their own pace. Whether it’s messy play in the garden, adventures to the local park, or vibrant cultural celebrations, there’s always something magical happening. It’s a place where teachers bring the fun, and children bring the wonder.

We have an opportunity for a dedicated leader who puts people at the heart of everything they do to step into our Centre Manager role. As our new leader, you will exemplify Evolve's values in everything you do:

• Kotahitanga – we are stronger together.
• Manaakitanga – we make everyone feel welcome.
• Mahia te mahi – we thrive on progress.
• Kia manawanui – we see a world of possibilities.

You will partner with our team and families, fostering genuine community engagement while enhancing our program, processes, and pedagogy. Working closely with your Area Manager, you'll relish the opportunity to enhance our curriculum and really make your mark in this area. You’ll provide effective hands-on leadership that empowers and supports team members in achieving their objectives while managing daily operational tasks.

Our offer to you:

• An incredible team of passionate, close-knit Kaiako who will welcome you with open arms.
• A competitive salary and the chance to truly enjoy that all-important work-life balance.
• Ongoing professional development and exciting opportunities to grow your leadership journey.
• Celebrate you with a well-deserved half-day off for your birthday.
• Be part of something bigger – join the amazing Evolve whānau of ECE professionals making a real difference across the motu.

What we\'re looking for in you:

• You are ECE Qualified and hold Full Teaching Registration.
• You’ve led a centre before and understand what it takes to create a thriving, successful learning environment.
• Your leadership style is people-focused and heart-led, with great communication and strong relationship-building skills.
• You're a confident problem-solver who thrives in a dynamic environment and knows how to balance competing priorities.
• Most of all, you're passionate about learning, open to fresh ideas, and ready to lead with purpose and positivity.

If this sounds like your kind of adventure, we’d love to hear from you!