The Operations Manager plays a pivotal role in shaping high-performing Centres. Supporting a portfolio of Centres, this role drives operational excellence, financial performance, compliance, and leadership development
Through coaching, mentoring and genuine partnership, you will empower Centre Directors and leadership teams to align with organisational strategy, regulatory requirements and our commitment to delivering high-quality education. You will play a key role in identifying opportunities for improvement, supporting new Centre openings and embedding a culture of continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities:
As Operations Manager, your responsibilities will span across six key areas:
* OHS & Compliance:
Promote a culture of safety and compliance, ensure adherence to policies and regulations
* Service Operations:
Support Centre operations including rostering, budgeting, reporting, occupancy growth, and financial efficiency.
* Policy & Procedure:
Ensure policies are embedded into daily practices, guide teams in policy interpretation
* Leadership & Coaching:
Mentor Centre Leaders, support leadership development, goal setting and professional growth.
* Culture:
Foster a positive, values-driven culture of collaboration, integrity, and respect.
* Quality & Environment:
Maintain high standards in Centre presentation, learning environments, and resource quality.
Alongside the General Manager of Operations, you will support the following portfolio of centres:
* Armadale
* Boronia
* Brighton East
* Beaconsfield
* Clyde North
* Croydon
* Dandenong
* Frankston North
* Mornington
* Nunawading
* Surrey Hills- Elgar Road
* Surrey Hills - Stanley Terrace
What you bring:
* Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (or ACECQA-approved equivalent).
* Current Working with Children Check and Driver's License.
* At least 5 years' experience as an Early Childhood Teacher, with experience in leadership or multi-site support.
* Strong knowledge of EYLF, NQF, ACECQA standards, compliance, and early years legislation.
* Demonstrated experience coaching teams, improving operations, and supporting Centre openings.
* Strong financial acumen and ability to manage rosters, budgets, and reporting.
* Deep understanding of quality frameworks and the ability to translate them into daily practice.
* Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
* Commitment to continuous improvement, inclusion, and professional integrity.
Why Join Explorers?
* Competitive Salary + Motor Vehicle Allowance
* Annual Awards Party + Regular Professional Development
* Generous Childcare Discount (
T&Cs apply
)
* Career Growth in a Rapidly Expanding Organization
* Employee Assistance Program (EAP) & Strong Leadership Support
* Employee Retail Discount Program designed to save you money, with access to discounted in-store and online vouchers from hundreds of retailers
About Us:
At Explorers Early Learning, this isn't just another job in childcare. It's the beginning of a career with a founder-driven, women-led organisation created to raise the standard of early learning in Australia. When Lynda Salvo founded Explorers in 2004, her mission was simple but powerful: to build centres where children and educators could thrive together. That same mission continues today, with every decision focused on investing in the people who bring our centres to life
Explorers is designed around people first, with a culture where belonging and joy are as essential as curriculum. Here, you'll find mentoring, leadership development, and the encouragement to stretch into new opportunities. It's not just about compliance or ticking boxes; it's about giving you the tools, trust, and community to grow into the educator and leader you want to be.
Explorers is committed to being a flexible, safe, equal, and inclusive workplace where we embrace and support diversity.
We encourage applications from people who are from diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, people of any age, race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, and cultural background.