Childcare Center Director - Early Learning Focus

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Health and wellness benefits

Professional development support

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is assisting a highly regarded Pretoria early learning center in finding an experienced Childcare Center Director. The role features a hybrid work model with on-site leadership and remote administrative duties, overseeing curriculum, staff, compliance, and growth.

You will shape an engaging educational environment for young children and guide educators with strong communication and collaboration.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or related field; Master's preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years in early childhood education with 2–3 years in supervisory roles.
• Knowledge of licensing, health & safety, and curriculum standards in South Africa.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership and a safe, nurturing learning environment.
• Develop and implement an age-appropriate, play-based curriculum that meets standards.
• Recruit, hire, train, supervise, and evaluate staff.
• Ensure compliance with local, provincial, and national regulations.
• Manage the center's budget, enrollment, payroll, and expenses.
• Foster parent engagement and positive relationships with families.
• Oversee daily operations, scheduling, facilities, and resources.
• Implement quality assurance processes and professional development.
• Represent the center in the community and build partnerships.

Skills

Leadership

Staff management

Communication

Budgeting

Curriculum development

Regulatory compliance

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Staff scheduling software

Budgeting software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly regarded early learning center in Pretoria, Gauteng , is looking for an experienced and inspiring Childcare Center Director . This role offers a Hybrid work arrangement, blending essential on-site leadership and direct engagement with children and staff, with flexible remote administrative responsibilities. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the center's operations, including curriculum development, staff management, regulatory compliance, and fostering a nurturing and stimulating environment for young children. The ideal candidate will possess a deep passion for early childhood education, strong leadership acumen, and excellent communication and interpersonal skills. You will lead a dedicated team of educators, ensuring the highest standards of care and learning are maintained. Your ability to build positive relationships with children, parents, and staff will be crucial. This position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to continuous improvement in early learning practices. You will play a pivotal role in shaping the educational journey of the children entrusted to our care and guiding the professional development of our educators. The center is committed to providing a supportive environment for its hybrid workforce.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership and management for the childcare center, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and stimulating learning environment.
• Develop, implement, and maintain an age-appropriate, play-based curriculum that meets educational standards and promotes holistic child development.
• Recruit, hire, train, supervise, and evaluate all center staff, fostering a positive and collaborative team culture.
• Ensure compliance with all local, provincial, and national regulations, licensing requirements, and health and safety standards.
• Manage the center's budget, including enrollment, tuition collection, payroll, and operational expenses.
• Develop and maintain strong, positive relationships with parents and families, facilitating open communication and engagement.
• Oversee the daily operations of the center, including scheduling, facility management, and resource allocation.
• Implement and monitor quality assurance processes to ensure the highest standards of care and education.
• Conduct regular staff meetings, professional development sessions, and performance reviews.
• Represent the center in the community and build partnerships with relevant organizations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field. A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in early childhood education, with at least 2-3 years in a supervisory or management role (e.g., Assistant Director, Director).
• Thorough knowledge of early childhood development principles, curriculum frameworks, and pedagogical best practices.
• Proven experience in staff management, training, and performance evaluation.
• Demonstrated understanding of childcare licensing regulations and health & safety standards in South Africa.
• Excellent leadership, organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage administrative tasks effectively, with proficiency in relevant software.
• Experience managing budgets and financial operations.
• Certification in First Aid and CPR, or willingness to obtain.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package reflecting leadership responsibilities.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility and work-life balance.
• Opportunity to lead a dedicated and passionate team.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• Paid time off, including annual leave and public holidays.
• Professional development opportunities and support for ongoing training.
• A nurturing and supportive work environment dedicated to child development.
• Potential for bonuses based on center performance.