Childcare Centre Director – Maternity Leave Cover | 12-Month Fixed Term

Smart Cookies Early Learning Centre – Liverpool, NSW | 40-Place Service

Because Exceptional Early Learning Starts with Exceptional People

- Step straight into a leadership role with full autonomy
- Up to $120k base in a worker retention approved service
- Step into a leadership role at a purpose built modern centre where your leadership directly impacts children, staff, and families
- Family-owned, values-driven organisation that respects your expertise and time

About Us Smart Cookies is a family-owned and operated childcare centre with over 10 years of experience delivering high-quality education and care to children aged 9 months to 6 years. Guided by the Early Years Learning Framework and National Quality Standards, we believe that investing in our team and nurturing a positive culture creates an enriching environment for children, families and educators.

The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced and inspiring Centre Director to join our warm, community-focused service in Liverpool.

This position is offered as a 12-month fixed-term maternity leave cover, with the possibility of extending beyond the initial 12-month term.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced early childhood leader to step into a well-established leadership role and make a genuine impact within a small, close-knit service. You’ll have the autonomy to lead the centre, support a dedicated team and build strong relationships with children, families and the wider community.





If you are looking for a meaningful 12-month leadership opportunity where your experience and leadership can make a real difference, we’d love to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead the day-to-day operations of the service while ensuring compliance with regulatory, WHS and child protection requirements
- Mentor, support and inspire a dedicated team of educators to deliver high-quality, play-based education and care
- Oversee CCS compliance, enrolments, budgeting and overall centre performance
- Drive continuous improvement through the Quality Improvement Plan
- Build and nurture strong, collaborative relationships with families and the local community
- Foster a positive, supportive and inclusive workplace culture
- Lead with confidence, professionalism and a genuine passion for early childhood education

What We’re Looking For

- Minimum 2 years’ experience as a Centre Director or Nominated Supervisor in an early childhood setting
- Diploma or Degree in Early Childhood Education (ACECQA-approved) or equivalent
- Current First Aid, Asthma & Anaphylaxis and Child Protection certifications
- Current Working with Children Check & Police Check
- Thorough understanding of the NQF, EYLF, Education & Care Services National Law and Regulations, and CCS




- Robust understanding and implementaton of Paramount consideration and child safety.
- Excellent leadership, communication, organisation and time-management skills
- A proactive approach with the ability to work autonomously and take initiative
- Experience with the Assessment & Rating process will be highly regarded
- Must have permanent right to work in Australia

What We Offer

- 12-month fixed-term maternity leave cover position
- Possibility of extension beyond the initial 12-month term
- Worker retention approved service
- A small, close-knit centre with a strong community focus
- A supportive and experienced management team
- A high degree of autonomy and genuine leadership impact
- A collaborative, trusting and innovative workplace culture
- Competitive salary package
- Professional development support
- Up to 50% childcare discount for your own children

How to Apply If you're an experienced and passionate early childhood leader looking for a 12-month maternity leave cover opportunity with the possibility of extension, we’d love to hear from you.

Click “Apply Now” on Indeed and submit your CV and cover letter

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $100,000.00 – $120,000.00 per year

Benefits

- Childcare assistance
- Employee discount
- Free drinks
- Free food
- Career development assistance

Application Question(s):
- Do you hold a Diploma qualification (or higher) in Early Childhood Education & Care?
- Do you have a minimum of 2 years' experience as a Childcare Centre Director?

Work Authorisation:
- Australia (Required)

Work Location: In person

📌 Childcare Centre Director / Nominated Supervisor-Maternity Leave Cover (12 month term) (Liverpool)
🏢 Smart Cookies Early Learning Centre
📍 Liverpool