Head Of Natural Sciences — Curriculum & Leadership

Placements24; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Bonuses

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Child Development Centre Manager in Sandton, Gauteng. You will oversee daily operations, ensure high-quality early childhood education, manage staff, and develop curricula while maintaining regulatory compliance and strong parent/community relations.

The role requires 5–7 years in leadership; a Bachelor's in ECD is essential, with a Master’s considered advantageous. A proactive, inclusive leader will guide a reputable institution toward ongoing excellence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or related field.
• Minimum of 5-7 years in a management or leadership role within childcare/early education.
• Proven track record in staff management and curriculum development.
• Strong knowledge of early childhood development principles.
• Understanding of licensing, regulatory requirements, and compliance.
• Excellent leadership, communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Financial acumen with budgeting experience.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Clear criminal record and relevant certifications.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all daily operations of the Child Development Centre.
• Ensure high-quality early childhood education meeting developmental needs.
• Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate all centre staff.
• Develop and implement operational policies and procedures.
• Manage budgets, financial planning and resource allocation.
• Ensure licensing, health and safety compliance.
• Foster a positive, nurturing environment for children, staff and families.
• Oversee curriculum development and innovative teaching practices.
• Act as primary contact for parents and build strong relationships.
• Maintain and enhance the centre's reputation in Sandton community.

Skills

Leadership

Staff management

Curriculum development

Regulatory compliance

Budgeting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education

Master's degree advantageous

Job description

Child Development Centre Manager - Educational Leadership

A prestigious Child Development Centre in the upscale area of Sandton, Gauteng, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Manager to oversee its operations. This leadership role requires a strategic thinker with a strong background in early childhood education and centre management. The Manager will be responsible for ensuring the highest standards of care and education, managing staff, overseeing curriculum development, maintaining regulatory compliance, and fostering positive relationships with parents and the community. This is a significant opportunity for a seasoned professional to lead a reputable institution in Sandton.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of the Child Development Centre's daily operations.
• Ensure the delivery of high-quality early childhood education programs that meet developmental needs.
• Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate all centre staff.
• Develop and implement operational policies and procedures.
• Manage budgets, financial planning, and resource allocation effectively.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant licensing, health, safety, and educational regulations.
• Foster a positive, nurturing, and inclusive environment for children, staff, and families.
• Oversee curriculum development and implementation, promoting innovative teaching practices.
• Act as the primary point of contact for parents, addressing concerns and building strong relationships.
• Maintain and improve the centre's reputation within the Sandton community.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field. A Master's degree is advantageous.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in a management or leadership role within a childcare or early education setting.
• Proven track record in staff management, curriculum development, and operational oversight.
• In-depth knowledge of early childhood development principles and best practices.
• Strong understanding of regulatory requirements and licensing procedures.
• Excellent leadership, communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Financial acumen and experience with budgeting and financial management.
• Commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Must possess a clean criminal record and relevant certifications.
• Experience within the Sandton or broader Gauteng educational landscape.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive health insurance.
• Retirement savings plan.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Generous paid time off.