Early Learning Centre Manager
Southbank|Melbourne CBD, Vic
Well-paid, well-supported, and designed to give experienced leaders the space to lead properly.
We are recruiting an Early Learning Centre Manager (also known as a Centre Director or Early Years Manager) for a beautifully resourced 60-place long day care service in Southbank, minutes from Melbourne CBD.
The service is part of an integrated family of early learning centres with established systems and dedicated specialist support across compliance, HR, recruitment, finance, maintenance, and operations. The intention is simple: remove unnecessary pressure so the Centre Manager can focus on people, quality, and steady leadership.
Why leaders choose this role
This is not a role for someone looking to overhaul, rescue, or firefight.
It is designed for a leader who values structure, consistency, and support — and who does their best work in a well-run setting.
You will be supported by:
Compliance and quality specialists assisting with NQF, QIP, and best practice
HR and employee relations support
Dedicated recruitment support (no late-night job ads or staffing panic)
Finance, operations, and maintenance support
An experienced Area Manager who provides coaching and guidance, without micromanagement
What is on offer
Attractive above-award salary, with performance incentives that reward strong occupancy and consistent centre performance — not just once a year
Annual Work Retention Grant/Bonus
Performance incentives, including monthly KPI bonuses and spot bonuses
Roster autonomy,



allowing genuine control over your working week
Clear leadership pathways within a large organisation operating across multiple states
Supported professional development (internal and external)
Wellbeing support, including EAP, health insurance discounts, and wellbeing programs
A stable, professionally run service with established systems already in place
About the role
As Early Learning Centre Manager, you will oversee the day-to-day operations of the service and provide calm, consistent leadership to a stable team.
The role focuses on:
Leading with a people-first, relationship-driven approach
Maintaining a steady, supportive, and accountable team culture
Building strong relationships with families and the local community
Ensuring compliance and embedding the NQF and EYLF into daily practice
Supporting enrolments and occupancy through reputation and service quality
Encouraging reflective practice and continuous improvement without unnecessary complexity
About you
This role will suit someone that is confident, grounded, and ready to lead with support around them.
You will likely bring:
ADiploma or higher qualificationin Early Childhood Education
2–3+ years recent experiencein a leadership role within long day care or atleast but early childhood education and care within Australia
Strong knowledge of the NQF, EYLF, and quality improvement processes
A calm, collaborative leadership style that builds trust and consistency
Experience supporting an Assessment and Rating visit (desirable, not essential)
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📌 Early Learning Centre Manager (Melbourne)
🏢 Early Years Talent
📍 Melbourne