Early Childhood Development (ECD) Center Manager

Placements24; Klerksdorp; On-site; ZAR 360,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development

Performance incentives

Retirement fund

Paid annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Center Manager for a well-regarded ECD center in Klerksdorp, North West. You will oversee day-to-day operations, lead a team of ECD practitioners, and ensure high-quality learning experiences for young children.

The role requires a qualification in ECD or Management, at least five years in ECD with supervisory experience, and strong skills in budgeting, compliance, and stakeholder engagement.

Qualifications

• Relevant qualification in ECD, Education, or Management.
• Minimum 5 years in ECD, with 2–3 years in supervision/management.
• Strong knowledge of child development principles and curricula.
• Proven staff management, training, and leadership experience.
• Excellent health, safety, and regulatory compliance knowledge.
• Strong budgeting and financial management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Based in or willing to relocate to Klerksdorp.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the ECD center.
• Lead and develop ECD practitioners and staff.
• Develop and maintain educational programs aligned with best practices.
• Ensure health, safety, and licensing compliance.
• Manage the center budget, spending, and fee collection.
• Engage with parents and guardians to foster relationships.
• Maintain enrollment, attendance, progress, and staff records.
• Oversee facility maintenance and a safe learning environment.
• Market the center and manage admissions to optimize enrollment.
• Organize parent meetings and community outreach.

Skills

Leadership

Staff management

Budgeting

Communication

Regulatory compliance

Curriculum development

Education

Diploma in ECD

B.Ed.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a well-regarded Early Childhood Development (ECD) center in Klerksdorp, North West, is seeking an experienced and dedicated Center Manager to oversee its operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the delivery of high-quality early learning programs, managing staff, maintaining compliance with regulatory standards, and fostering a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment for young children. This role requires strong leadership, excellent organizational skills, and a deep passion for early childhood education. The position is based in Klerksdorp, and the manager will be expected to be present full-time to ensure effective day-to-day management and interaction with children, staff, and parents. This is a critical role in supporting the development and well-being of young learners in the North West province.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all daily operations of the ECD center, ensuring smooth and efficient functioning.
• Manage and lead a team of ECD practitioners and support staff, including recruitment, training, supervision, and performance management.
• Develop, implement, and maintain educational programs aligned with early childhood development best practices and curriculum frameworks.
• Ensure the center complies with all relevant health, safety, and licensing regulations.
• Manage the center's budget, including financial planning, expenditure control, and fee collection.
• Foster positive relationships with parents and guardians, facilitating communication and engagement.
• Maintain accurate records related to children's enrollment, attendance, progress, and staff information.
• Oversee the maintenance of the facility and ensure a clean, safe, and stimulating environment for children.
• Market the ECD center and manage admissions to ensure optimal enrollment.
• Organize and facilitate parent meetings, community outreach programs, and center events.

Requirements

• A relevant qualification in Early Childhood Development, Education, or Management (e.g., Diploma in ECD, B.Ed.).
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in an ECD setting, with at least 2-3 years in a supervisory or managerial role.
• In-depth knowledge of child development principles and curriculum frameworks for young children.
• Proven experience in staff management, training, and leadership.
• Strong understanding of health, safety, and regulatory compliance in ECD centers.
• Excellent financial management and budgeting skills.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in administrative tasks and record-keeping.
• A passion for child development and a commitment to providing a nurturing environment.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Klerksdorp.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary.
• Opportunity to lead and shape a reputable ECD center.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Supportive work environment with a dedicated team.
• Annual performance-based incentives.
• Contributions to a retirement fund.
• Paid annual leave and sick leave.