Childcare Centre Manager (Full-time)

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 420,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Comprehensive health benefits

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Childcare Centre Manager in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. You will oversee daily operations, educational programming, and staff management to deliver high-quality early childhood education in a safe, nurturing environment.

You will ensure regulatory compliance, engage with parents, manage budgets, and lead a team of educators to foster organizational excellence and child wellbeing.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Business Administration, or related field.
• Minimum of 4 years in a supervisory or management role in childcare.
• Knowledge of early childhood education principles and best practices.
• Understanding of relevant childcare legislation and regulatory requirements.
• Proven leadership and staff development skills.
• Strong financial management and budgeting capabilities.
• Excellent communication and conflict-resolution skills.
• Experience with enrollment, records, and administration.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day management of the childcare centre and operations.
• Develop and monitor high-quality early childhood education programs.
• Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate staff; support professional development.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and licensing regulations.
• Develop and manage the centre’s budget and financial accountability.
• Engage with parents and guardians; communicate openly.
• Conduct staff meetings, parent conferences, and tours for prospective families.
• Manage enrollment, admissions, and child records.
• Oversee facilities maintenance ensuring safety and functionality.
• Enforce centre policies and foster a positive workplace culture.
• Handle parent inquiries and feedback promptly.
• Promote inclusive and equitable environment for all children.

Skills

Leadership

Staff development

Budgeting

Communication

Regulatory compliance

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education

Supervisory/management experience

Tools

Childcare management software

Microsoft Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly respected and well-established childcare facility in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal , is actively seeking an experienced and passionate Childcare Centre Manager. This critical leadership role requires a motivated individual to oversee the daily operations, educational programming, and staff management of the centre. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership qualities, a deep understanding of early childhood education best practices, and a commitment to creating a safe, stimulating, and nurturing environment for young children. The manager will be responsible for ensuring compliance with all regulatory standards, fostering positive relationships with parents, and leading a team of dedicated educators. This position offers a significant opportunity to make a tangible impact on the development and well‑being of children in the heart of Durban .

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day management of the childcare centre, ensuring smooth and efficient operations.
• Develop, implement, and monitor high-quality early childhood education programs that meet all curriculum standards.
• Manage and supervise all centre staff, including recruitment, training, performance evaluation, and professional development.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and licensing regulations, maintaining a safe environment for children and staff.
• Develop and manage the centre's budget, ensuring financial accountability and sustainability.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with parents and guardians, facilitating open communication and engagement.
• Conduct regular staff meetings, parent-teacher conferences, and centre tours for prospective families.
• Manage enrollment, admissions, and maintain accurate child records.
• Oversee the maintenance of facilities and equipment, ensuring they are clean, safe, and functional.
• Implement and enforce centre policies and procedures, promoting a positive and professional workplace culture.
• Handle parent inquiries, concerns, and feedback promptly and professionally.
• Ensure the centre provides an inclusive and equitable environment for all children.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in a supervisory or management role within a childcare setting.
• Comprehensive knowledge of early childhood education principles and best practices.
• Strong understanding of relevant legislation and regulatory requirements for childcare centres.
• Proven leadership, team management, and staff development skills.
• Excellent financial management and budgeting capabilities.
• Outstanding communication, interpersonal, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Experience with child enrollment, record-keeping, and administrative tasks.
• Proficiency in relevant childcare management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• First Aid and CPR certification.
• A genuine passion for early childhood education and child welfare.
• Demonstrated ability to foster a positive and collaborative work environment in Durban .

Benefits

• Competitive salary package reflective of experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development and leadership training.
• A supportive work environment with a dedicated team.
• The chance to lead a reputable centre and impact young lives in Durban .
• Potential for career advancement within the organization.