Regional Operations Leader - Early Learning (ECE)

Central Kids; Tokoroa; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Central Kids is seeking a Regional Operations Manager in New Zealand to provide senior operational leadership across a portfolio of early learning services. You will work closely with Head Teachers to deliver strong outcomes for tamariki, whānau and communities while ensuring educational quality and regulatory compliance.

You will oversee health and safety, workforce, financial performance and risk, while building relationships with service leaders and stakeholders to support culturally

Qualifications

• Experience leading in early childhood education.
• Knowledge of regulatory/licensing and health & safety practices.
• Experience coaching leaders and managing performance.
• Willingness to travel regionally across NZ.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support a portfolio of early learning services.
• Coach and develop service leaders, building confidence, capability and accountability.
• Maintain oversight of service performance including budgets, enrolments and staffing.
• Ensure strong regulatory, licensing, child safety and health & safety practices.
• Lead regional readiness for MOE, ERO audits and regulators.
• Identify risks and address performance issues promptly.
• Support services through change and organisational priorities.
• Collaborate with Central Kids teams to provide coordinated support.
• Build relationships with whānau, mana whenua, iwi and community partners.

Skills

Leadership

Regulatory compliance

Health and safety

Strategic planning

Coaching leaders

Stakeholder engagement

Travel readiness

Financial acumen

Education

Tertiary qualification in ECE/Leadership

Job description

Central Kids is seeking a Regional Operations Manager in New Zealand to provide senior operational leadership across a portfolio of early learning services. You will work closely with Head Teachers to deliver strong outcomes for tamariki, whānau and communities while ensuring educational quality and regulatory compliance.

You will oversee health and safety, workforce, financial performance and risk, while building relationships with service leaders and stakeholders to support culturally