ECE Centre Manager — Lead a High-Performing Team in Kerikeri

Busy Bees Ltd; New Zealand; On-site; NZD 91,000 - 111,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

1:1 coaching

EAP

Wellbeing focus

Professional development

Discounted childcare fees

Free annual flu vaccinations

National support network

Job summary

Busy Bees Ltd in Kerikeri is seeking an experienced Centre Manager to lead our ECE centre as it prepares for maternity leave. This permanent full-time role starts March 2027, offering the chance to inspire a passionate team and deliver high-quality care in a beautiful Bay of Islands setting.

You will drive centre performance, coach staff, manage enrolments and occupancy, and strengthen ties with the local community while upholding Te Tiriti Waitangi and Te Reo Māori principles.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) or NZQA-approved qualification and current teacher registration.
• Proven leadership experience in the ECE sector with a passion for coaching and mentoring staff.
• Knowledge of Te Whāriki, MOE/ERO Regulations, Licensing Criteria, and Teaching Council requirements.
• Experience with enrolments, rosters, and occupancy targets.
• Commitment to Te Tiriti Waitangi and weaving Te Reo Māori and tikanga daily.

Responsibilities

• Lead the centre to deliver high-quality care and education while meeting financial targets.
• Mentor kaiako through Professional Growth Cycles and 1:1 development discussions.
• Implement centre-specific strategic plans and robust curriculum evaluations.
• Manage occupancy, enrolments, and staff rosters to meet targets.
• Build deep community connections as the centre's visible face.
• Ensure Te Tiriti o Waitangi is the foundation of bicultural education.

Skills

Leadership

Coaching

Staff development

Community engagement

Budgeting

Education

Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood)

Tools

Childcare management software

Job description

Busy Bees Ltd in Kerikeri is seeking an experienced Centre Manager to lead our ECE centre as it prepares for maternity leave. This permanent full-time role starts March 2027, offering the chance to inspire a passionate team and deliver high-quality care in a beautiful Bay of Islands setting.

You will drive centre performance, coach staff, manage enrolments and occupancy, and strengthen ties with the local community while upholding Te Tiriti Waitangi and Te Reo Māori principles.