Childcare Program Manager

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 360,000 - 540,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Upington, Northern Cape, is seeking a seasoned Childcare Program Manager to lead our childcare services on-site. This full-time role requires strong leadership, program development, and operational oversight to ensure high-quality care and engaging educational activities.

You will manage staff, budgets, regulatory compliance, and community relations while fostering a safe, supportive environment for children and professional growth for the team.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or related field; master's preferred.
• Minimum 5 years in childcare with at least 3 years in management.
• Proven track record in program development and operations in childcare.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Valid First Aid and CPR certification.

Responsibilities

• Oversee operations of the childcare program and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate curricula and activities for child development.
• Supervise, train, and evaluate childcare staff.
• Manage budgets, resources, and inventory.
• Engage with parents, guardians, and the local community.
• Ensure health and safety of all children and conduct program assessments.
• Organize staff meetings, trainings, and parent information sessions.
• Handle administrative duties including records and reporting.

Skills

Leadership

Team Management

Budget Management

Communication

Child Development Knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education / Child Development

Master's degree (advantage)

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly competent and experienced Childcare Program Manager to oversee and enhance their childcare services in Upington, Northern Cape. This leadership role is essential for ensuring the delivery of high-quality care, educational programming, and operational efficiency within the childcare facilities. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional organizational skills, a deep understanding of child development, and proven experience in managing teams and programs. This is a full-time, on-site position based in Upington, demanding a proactive and detail-oriented approach. You will be instrumental in fostering a positive and safe environment for children and supporting the professional growth of the childcare staff.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the overall operations of the childcare program, ensuring compliance with all regulations and standards.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate program curricula and activities to support child development.
• Supervise, train, and evaluate childcare staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Manage budgets, resources, and inventory effectively.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with parents, guardians, and the local community.
• Ensure the health, safety, and well-being of all children in the program.
• Conduct regular program assessments and implement improvements based on findings.
• Organize and lead staff meetings, training sessions, and parent information sessions.
• Handle administrative duties, including record-keeping, scheduling, and reporting.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field. A Master's degree is advantageous.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in childcare, with at least 3 years in a management or supervisory role.
• Proven track record in program development and operational management within a childcare setting.
• Strong understanding of child development theories and best practices.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in financial management and budget oversight.
• Ability to manage and motivate a diverse team.
• Valid First Aid and CPR certification.
• Must be a resident of or willing to relocate to Upington.
• This role is strictly No remote and requires full-time, on-site commitment.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package and performance incentives.
• Opportunity to lead and shape childcare services in the Northern Cape.
• Professional development and continuous learning opportunities.
• Supportive and collaborative work environment.
• Relocation assistance may be provided.
• Generous annual leave and benefits.
• Impactful role in community development.