Child Development Center Manager

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 550,000 - 950,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and dental insurance

Retirement plan

Hybrid work model

Ongoing professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban seeks an experienced Child Development Center Manager to lead daily operations, program quality, budgeting, and staff development. The role blends on-site leadership with strategic planning and community engagement to ensure outstanding care and education for children.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s in Early Childhood Education, 8+ years in the sector with 4+ in management, and proven skills in licensing compliance, team development, and safety.

Qualifications

• Master's degree required in ECE/child development.
• 8+ years in ECE with 4+ in management.
• Strong knowledge of curricula, assessment, and licensing.
• Proven leadership and staff development experience.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the childcare center.
• Lead program development and high-quality early learning.
• Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate staff.
• Develop and manage the center's budget.
• Ensure safety, health, and regulatory compliance.
• Engage with parents and the community.
• Drive enrollment and marketing strategies.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Communication

Staff Development

Regulatory Compliance

Strategic Planning

Education

Master's degree in Early Childhood Education/Child Development

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and dedicated Child Development Center Manager to oversee their well-regarded facility in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This leadership role is responsible for the seamless day-to-day operations, strategic planning, and upholding the highest standards of child care and education. The Manager will lead a team of passionate educators and support staff, cultivate a nurturing and stimulating environment for children, and foster strong partnerships with parents and the community. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional leadership abilities, a profound understanding of early childhood development, and a proven history of successful center management. This position is a hybrid role, blending essential on-site leadership with strategic remote planning and coordination.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of the childcare center's operations, ensuring adherence to regulatory standards and organizational policies.
• Implement and enhance high-quality early learning programs that promote holistic child development.
• Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate center staff, fostering a collaborative and supportive team culture.
• Develop and manage the center's budget, ensuring financial stability and efficient resource allocation.
• Prioritize and maintain the safety, health, and well-being of all children.
• Cultivate strong relationships with parents through effective communication, engagement, and feedback mechanisms.
• Develop and execute strategies for marketing and enrollment to maintain optimal child capacity.
• Conduct regular staff performance reviews and facilitate professional growth opportunities.
• Oversee facility maintenance and ensure a safe, clean, and inspiring learning environment.
• Act as the primary liaison for parents, staff, regulatory bodies, and community stakeholders.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience in the early childhood education sector, with a significant portion (4+ years) in a management or leadership capacity.
• Comprehensive knowledge of early childhood education theories, curriculum development, and child assessment practices.
• Demonstrated expertise in staff supervision, team building, and professional development.
• Proficiency in financial management, budgeting, and operational planning.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Thorough understanding of childcare licensing requirements and safety regulations in KwaZulu-Natal .
• Strong leadership acumen and the ability to inspire and motivate a team.
• A genuine commitment to fostering children's growth and development.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive medical and dental insurance, and a robust retirement fund. Opportunities for continuous professional development, including leadership workshops and conference attendance, are provided. The hybrid work model offers a degree of flexibility. This role provides immense personal satisfaction through leading a committed team and positively impacting the lives of children and families in the vibrant Durban community.