Childcare Centre Manager - ECD Specialist

Placements24; Roanoke (VA); Hybrid; USD 52,000 - 68,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Competitive salary

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Childcare Centre Manager for our East London, Eastern Cape client, now a hybrid role blending on-site leadership with strategic remote planning. You will guide staff, assure exceptional early learning, manage admissions, and maintain regulatory compliance to deliver a safe, nurturing environment for children aged 6 months to 5 years.

Lead a dedicated team, shape curriculum, and manage the center's budget and relationships with parents.

Qualifications

• A relevant qualification in Early Childhood Development (ECD) or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of management experience in a childcare setting.
• Experience in curriculum development for young children.
• Strong knowledge of South African ECD regulations and standards.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability in financial and operational planning.
• Proficiency with office software and childcare management tools.
• Ability to work on-site and remotely with independent task management.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the childcare center with high standards of care.
• Lead, mentor, and support a team of childcare professionals.
• Develop and implement innovative ECD curricula and programs.
• Ensure licensing, health, safety and child protection compliance.
• Manage the center's budget, resources and administration.
• Foster strong relationships with parents and provide communication.
• Conduct staff training and professional development.
• Handle admissions, enrollment and fee processes.
• Represent the center in the community and build partnerships.
• Implement strategic plans for growth and quality improvement.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Curriculum development

Regulatory compliance

Budget management

Education

Degree or Diploma in ECD

Tools

Childcare software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading provider of high-quality early childhood education, is looking for an experienced and dynamic Childcare Centre Manager to oversee their facility in East London, Eastern Cape . This is a hybrid role, blending essential on-site leadership with strategic remote planning and administration. The successful candidate will be responsible for the overall management and operational efficiency of the center, ensuring the delivery of exceptional educational programs and a safe, nurturing environment for children aged 6 months to 5 years. You will lead a dedicated team of educators, manage parent relations, and ensure compliance with all regulatory standards. We seek a visionary leader with a strong background in Early Childhood Development (ECD), exceptional interpersonal skills, and a proven track record in management and staff supervision. The role requires a strategic thinker who can balance daily operations with long-term development goals, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement within the center. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of early learning in a vibrant community.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of the childcare center, ensuring a high standard of care and education.
• Manage, mentor, and support a team of childcare professionals, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Develop and implement innovative ECD curricula and programs that meet the developmental needs of all children.
• Ensure compliance with all licensing regulations, health, safety, and child protection standards.
• Manage the center's budget, resources, and administrative functions effectively.
• Build and maintain strong, positive relationships with parents, providing regular communication and engagement opportunities.
• Conduct regular staff training and professional development sessions to enhance team skills.
• Manage admissions, enrollment, and fee collection processes.
• Represent the center in the community and build partnerships with relevant organizations.
• Implement strategic plans for center growth and quality improvement.

Requirements

• A relevant qualification in Early Childhood Development (ECD) or a related field (e.g., Degree or Diploma).
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in a management or leadership role within a childcare setting.
• Proven experience in curriculum development and implementation for young children.
• Strong understanding of South African ECD regulations and standards.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability in financial management and operational planning.
• Proficiency in using childcare management software and standard office applications.
• Ability to work effectively both on-site and remotely, managing tasks independently.
• A clear criminal record check and valid First Aid certification.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package with performance-based incentives.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility between office and remote work.
• Opportunity to lead and shape a reputable childcare center.
• Comprehensive professional development and training opportunities.
• Generous annual leave and benefits package.
• A supportive management structure and collaborative team environment.
• Contribution towards medical aid and pension fund.
• Potential for career advancement within a growing organization.