* Passionate about play-based learning? Join a team where leadership meets curiosity!
* $115-130k depending on experience + $10k sign-on bonus + relocation assistance! | Generous professional development & wellbeing perks
* Empower educators and shape the next generation at family-owned centres in Melbourne’s inner north
About Advance Childcare Management
Advance Childcare Management (ACM) is a family-owned and operated provider of high-quality childcare and early learning services in Melbourne’s inner northern suburbs. Operating six purpose-built centres, ACM is deeply committed to delivering warm, nurturing, and stimulating environments where children are encouraged to explore, inquire and grow.
Our centres reflect a tailored and holistic educational approach that integrates play-based and inquiry-driven learning, cultural responsiveness, and strong community engagement. From our award-winning \"Playground to Plate\" nutrition and sustainability program to our bush kinder and creative arts experiences, ACM offers children a vibrant and meaningful early learning journey.
We're proud of our supportive, inclusive culture, where our values of Respect, Communication, and Honesty are lived daily. Our Centre Managers are supported by on-site assistants, educational leaders, and a broader network that values professional development and wellbeing.
Visit our website to learn more: www.fairfieldelc.com.au
About the Opportunity
Advance Childcare Management is looking for full-time Centre Directors based in Fairfield, VIC.
You will report to the General Manager and lead one of our vibrant centres, ensuring high-quality care and education, team development, and strong family and community engagement.
More specifically, your responsibilities include but are not limited to:
* Provide strong leadership across all operational, strategic, and cultural aspects of the service in line with ACM values and the NQF.
* Champion high-quality, inclusive, child-centred practice aligned with the EYLF/VEYLDF and continuous improvement.
* Recruit, support, and develop educators through effective induction, performance management, and development-focused leadership.
* Maintain regulatory compliance, lead the QIP, and guide the service through Assessment and Rating.
* Embed robust child safety, supervision, and risk management practices that prioritise children’s wellbeing.
* Ensure learning environments are safe, engaging, inclusive, and well-maintained.
* Build strong, respectful relationships with families and community stakeholders to support children’s learning and transitions.
* Oversee budgets, enrolments, reporting, and operational performance to ensure service viability.
About You
To be successful in this role, you will hold a Diploma or Degree in Early Childhood Education and have at least 2 years’ experience in a Centre Director, Assistant Director or equivalent leadership role.
You will also bring:
* Advanced Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree (Early Childhood or Teaching)
* Experience in inquiry-based, Reggio Emilia-inspired, or play-based learning environments
* Proven people leadership and team development capability
* Current Working With Children Check or VIT registration
* Valid First Aid, CPR, Anaphylaxis, and Child Protection certifications
* Sound, practical working knowledge and implementation of the NQF and EYLF
As our ideal candidate, you are a natural people leader—approachable, calm under pressure, and passionate about empowering educators and children alike. You thrive in values-led environments and enjoy being present, engaged, and hands-on.
This opportunity suits an experienced Centre Director or a highly capable Assistant Director ready to step into a broader leadership role.
About the Benefits
In addition to a competitive salary of $115-$130k depending on experience + $10k sign-on bonus, you will receive a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your wellbeing and professional development:
* $10,000 sign-on bonus
* Relocation assistance up to $5,000
* Above-award remuneration and staffing ratios
* Dedicated Centre Manager Assistant and Educational Leader support
* Paid, customised leadership and pedagogy training
* Ongoing coaching and workshops with KG Learning
* Generous childcare discounts
* Free onsite parking
* Fully stocked staff kitchens and wellness spaces in each centre
* Access to a phone/in-person Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
* Active social, wellbeing, and staff recognition initiatives
* Clear career pathways into training, coaching, or network-wide leadership roles
Ready to Apply?
If you're ready to lead a purpose-driven team in an organisation that values people-first leadership, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today and join a centre that truly lives its values.