Centre Director - Fairfield / Ivanhoe locations

Centre Director | Lead a Centre Where Children, Families and Educators Thrive

Are you an experienced early childhood leader ready to shape culture, inspire teams and make a lasting impact on the lives of children and families?

We are seeking an exceptional Centre Director to lead a well-established early learning service in Melbourne's inner northern suburbs. This is an opportunity to step into a highly visible leadership role where your influence will extend far beyond day-to-day operations.

You'll be empowered to create a positive workplace culture, mentor and develop educators, drive quality outcomes, and build trusted relationships with families and the local community.

What You'll Be Leading

As Centre Director, you'll be responsible for the overall success of the service through solid educational leadership, operational excellence and people-focused management.

Your day may include:

Leading, coaching and inspiring a diverse team of early childhood professionals

Driving quality improvement initiatives and exceeding National Quality Standard expectations

Creating a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous learning

Building meaningful partnerships with children, families and community stakeholders

Managing centre operations, occupancy, compliance and financial performance

Supporting educator development through mentoring, performance coaching and professional growth opportunities

Ensuring a safe, engaging and nurturing environment where children can confidently learn and thrive

What We're Looking For

We're interested in leaders who combine commercial awareness with genuine passion for early childhood education.

You’ll bring:





Previous experience as a Centre Director, Service Manager or senior early childhood leader

Strong knowledge of the National Quality Framework, Education and Care Services National Regulations and Child Safe Standards

Demonstrated success leading and developing high-performing teams

Excellent communication and relationship-building skills

The ability to balance operational priorities while maintaining a child-centred approach

A proactive, solutions-focused leadership style

Relevant Early Childhood qualifications recognised under ACECQA requirements

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

This isn't just a centre management position. It's an opportunity to lead with purpose, influence positive change and create an environment where both children and educators flourish.

You’ll join an organisation that values:

Empowered leadership

Professional growth and career development

Innovation and continuous improvement

High-quality educational outcomes

Strong family and community connections

Recognition of individual contributions and achievements

Competitive salary package

Professional development and leadership mentoring

Supportive senior leadership team

Career progression opportunities

The chance to shape the vision, culture and success of the service

Your application will include the following questions:

- Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in Australia?
- How many years' experience do you have as a centre director?
- How much notice are you required to give your current employer?
- How many years' experience do you have as an Early Childhood Centre Director?
- Have you worked in a role which requires a sound understanding of the National Quality Framework?

📌 Centre Director (Melbourne)
🏢 SH Recruitment
📍 Melbourne