Child Development Centre Manager

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 360,000 - 480,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Healthcare benefits

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Child Development Centre Manager for their Upington facility in the Northern Cape. You will oversee operations, lead a team of educators, and ensure high-quality childcare and educational programs from infancy through school age.

The role requires strong leadership, a solid understanding of early childhood education, and excellent operational and financial management skills to shape the centre’s future and community impact.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or related field.
• Minimum 5–7 years in early childhood education.
• At least 3 years in a management/supervisory role.
• Strong knowledge of development theories and best practices.
• Experience with budgeting and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the centre and ensure smooth functioning.
• Lead, mentor and develop a team of childcare professionals.
• Develop and implement high-quality early childhood education programs.
• Ensure compliance with licensing, regulations and safety standards.
• Manage budgets, finance planning, and resource allocation.
• Develop marketing and enrollment strategies to attract families.
• Maintain strong relationships with parents and address concerns.
• Conduct staff performance evaluations and provide development opportunities.
• Oversee facility maintenance and create a safe, welcoming environment.
• Represent the centre to the community and form partnerships.

Skills

Leadership

Staff management

Budgeting

Regulatory compliance

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education

Master's degree (preferred)

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and dynamic Child Development Centre Manager to oversee the operations of their premier facility in Upington, Northern Cape . This leadership role is responsible for ensuring the delivery of high-quality childcare and educational programs for children from infancy through school age. The Manager will lead a team of dedicated educators and staff, manage administrative functions, ensure compliance with regulatory standards, and foster a nurturing and stimulating environment for children and families. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership qualities, a deep understanding of early childhood education principles, and excellent operational and financial management skills. This is a significant opportunity to shape and grow a vital community service in Upington, Northern Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the child development centre, ensuring smooth and efficient functioning.
• Lead, manage, and mentor a team of childcare professionals, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Develop, implement, and maintain high-quality early childhood education programs and curricula.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant government regulations, licensing requirements, and safety standards.
• Manage budgets, financial planning, and resource allocation for the centre.
• Develop and implement marketing and enrollment strategies to attract and retain families.
• Maintain strong relationships with parents, addressing concerns and facilitating parent engagement.
• Conduct regular staff performance evaluations and provide professional development opportunities.
• Oversee facility maintenance, ensuring a safe, clean, and welcoming environment.
• Represent the centre in the local community and build partnerships with relevant organizations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Management, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in early childhood education, with at least 3 years in a management or supervisory role.
• In-depth knowledge of early childhood development theories and best practices.
• Proven experience in staff management, training, and leadership.
• Strong understanding of regulatory compliance and licensing in the childcare sector.
• Excellent financial management and budgeting skills.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving abilities.
• Demonstrated ability to build positive relationships with staff, children, and families.
• Proficiency in using administrative and management software.
• First Aid and CPR certification is mandatory.

Benefits

• A leading management position in the childcare sector in Upington, Northern Cape .
• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunity to lead and inspire a dedicated team.
• Shape the future of early childhood education in the region.
• Work in a well-resourced and respected child development centre.