Childcare Program Director

Placements24; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement contributions

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Childcare Program Director for a Queenstown on-site role. You will oversee planning, implementation, and evaluation of all childcare programs, lead a diverse team, ensure safety and regulatory compliance, and manage budgets while strengthening relationships with families and the community.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education (Master's preferred), 5–7 years in childcare leadership, strong curriculum design knowledge, excellent

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is preferred.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in childcare management or leadership.
• Strong knowledge of early childhood development principles and curriculum design.
• Proven leadership and team management abilities.
• Excellent communication and conflict resolution skills.
• Strong understanding of childcare licensing regulations and health & safety standards.
• Experience with budgeting and financial management.
• Proficiency in childcare management software and standard office applications.
• Based in or willing to relocate to Queenstown.

Responsibilities

• Oversee planning, implementation, and evaluation of all childcare programs.
• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of childcare professionals.
• Ensure a safe, healthy, and stimulating environment for children.
• Develop and manage the center's budget and resources.
• Maintain compliance with licensing requirements and standards.
• Build relationships with parents and guardians.
• Oversee day-to-day operations of the childcare center.
• Implement and improve curriculum and pedagogical approaches.
• Serve as primary contact for regulatory bodies and stakeholders.
• Foster a positive, collaborative work culture.

Skills

Leadership

Curriculum development

Staff management

Communication

Regulatory compliance

Budgeting

Child advocacy

Education

Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education

Master's degree

Tools

Childcare management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly respected childcare provider in **Queenstown**, is searching for an experienced and visionary Childcare Program Director to lead their dedicated team and oversee all aspects of their educational programs. This critical on-site role is responsible for ensuring the delivery of exceptional care and high-quality learning experiences for children, fostering a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment. The Director will manage staff, develop and implement curriculum, maintain compliance with regulations, and build strong relationships with parents and the community. The ideal candidate possesses strong leadership qualities, a deep understanding of early childhood development, and a passion for creating impactful educational opportunities. Join our client in **Queenstown** and make a significant contribution to the lives of young children and families.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of all childcare programs, ensuring alignment with educational standards and developmental best practices.
• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of childcare professionals, including recruitment, training, supervision, and performance management.
• Ensure a safe, healthy, and stimulating environment for all children, adhering to stringent health and safety regulations.
• Develop and manage the center's budget, including financial planning, resource allocation, and cost control.
• Maintain compliance with all local, provincial, and national licensing requirements and standards for childcare facilities.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with parents and guardians, facilitating effective communication and engagement.
• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the childcare center, ensuring efficiency and quality service delivery.
• Implement and continuously improve curriculum and pedagogical approaches to meet the diverse needs of children.
• Act as the primary point of contact for regulatory bodies and community stakeholders.
• Foster a positive, collaborative, and professional work culture among staff.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is preferred.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in childcare management or leadership, with a strong track record of program development and oversight.
• Comprehensive knowledge of early childhood development principles, learning theories, and curriculum design.
• Proven leadership, team management, and motivational skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and conflict resolution abilities.
• Strong understanding of childcare licensing regulations, health, and safety standards.
• Experience with budgeting and financial management.
• Proficiency in relevant childcare management software and standard office applications.
• Passion for child advocacy and commitment to providing high-quality early education.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to **Queenstown**.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and retirement contributions, generous paid time off, and opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

Employees benefit from working within a supportive and dedicated team, contributing to a vital community service in **Queenstown**, and making a tangible difference in the lives of children.