Centre Operations Leader (Area Manager)

Inspire Early Years Management is a values‑driven organisation supporting Early Learning Centres across Australia. We partner with Approved Providers, Centre Operators and Leaders to deliver high‑quality management, consulting, and operational support. Our work is grounded in the National Quality Framework, and our mission is simple: help centres thrive, empower Educators, and create environments where children flourish.

We are excited to invite an experienced and values-driven Centre Operations Leader (Area Manager) to support and inspire a portfolio of high-quality early learning centres on behalf of multiple Owners and Approved Providers.

Are you a passionate early childhood leader ready to make a broader impact?

About the Role

As a Centre Operations Leader, you'll provide hands-on leadership and strategic guidance across a portfolio of childcare centres. You’ll partner closely with Centre Managers to strengthen operations, embed best practice, and build positive, high-performing teams, whilst always keeping children at the heart of everything we do.

This is a rewarding opportunity for a leader who enjoys mentoring others, driving continuous improvement, and being a visible, supportive presence in centres.

The role allows an amazing opportunity to be hands on within the centres to make a real difference. The role will involve possible monthly interstate travel.

What You’ll Be Responsible For

• Leading and supporting Centre Managers to achieve strong operational, educational, and compliance outcomes
• Building a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement
• Overseeing quality, compliance, and performance across your portfolio
• Supporting budget management, occupancy growth, wages to revenue control, debt management and workforce planning
• Coaching and developing leaders to build confident, capable, and engaged teams
• Partnering with our support team to deliver Inspire’s vision and values
• Ensuring families and children experience consistent, high-quality care and education

About You

You are an experienced early childhood leader who brings both heart and structure to your work. You might currently be an Area Manager, Operations Manager, or a highly experienced Centre Manager ready for your next step.

• Extensive experience in early childhood education and care leadership
• Strong knowledge of the NQF, National Regulations, and quality improvement processes
• Proven ability to lead, mentor, and influence diverse teams
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• A solutions-focused mindset and a passion for growing people and centres
• A relevant ECEC qualification

Why Join Inspire Early Years Management?

Be part of a supportive, values-led organisation and make a meaningful impact across multiple centres and communities. Work with passionate, purpose-driven educators and leaders. Enjoy autonomy, trust, and genuine support from the Founders.

• Fuel & Travel costs covered
• Laptop and Phone
• Birthday Leave
• Annual Team Retreat

Ready to Inspire?

If you’re ready to step into a role where your leadership truly matters, we would love to hear from you. Join us and help shape exceptional early learning experiences every day, in every centre.

Apply now and take the next step in your leadership journey with Inspire.

Please send a cover letter and resume to [email protected]