Be there from Day One.

Story House Early Learning is opening a brand-new, purpose-built service in Warranwood in December 2026 and we're looking for an exceptional Service Manager to lead it from the ground up.

This is a rare opportunity to shape the culture, set the tone with families and embed the Story House values into a 127-place, 7-room service from its very first day. If you're an experienced centre leader who thrives on building something special - not just maintaining it - this role was made for you.

As Centre Director (we call it Service Manager), you'll take full ownership of this brand-new service, driving its operational excellence, team culture and community reputation from day one. You'll be based on-site at Warranwood and report to the Business Operations Manager, with the backing of an experienced state leadership team while holding real autonomy to lead your service your way.

What you'll do:

- Lead all day-to-day operations & build and shape team culture, routines and community from the ground up
- Drive compliance across NQS, QIP and all relevant regulatory frameworks
- Cultivate genuine relationships with families and embed Story House values throughout your service
- Manage staffing, budgets and business performance in partnership with your BOM
- Work a flexible schedule that includes some opening and closing shifts to support your team

This is a full-time role with flexible shifts but we would prefer that our Managers work some open & closing shifts depending on the business' needs.





What You'll Bring

- Current experience as a Service Manager or Centre Director- 2IC or Assistant Director candidates will not be considered at this stage
- Current or most recent service of 70+ licensed places
- Minimum Diploma in Early Childhood Education
- Geccko Foundation and Advanced certificates (Levels 1-5)
- VIC Protect training and valid WWCC
- Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident (no sponsorship available)

Benefits

- $100K-$120K above-award salary + worker retention payment
- Dedicated leadership program with financial bonuses
- 75% staff childcare discount*
- FREE First Aid, CPR and Flu Vaccinations
- Discounts at 100s of major retailers
- Sonder - 24/7 safety and wellbeing support
- Humanforce Thrive - track, grow and access same-day pay
- SHEL-endar - tailored professional development platform with industry leader partnerships
- Regular Manager networking events and interstate relocation support

Story House Early Learning is committed to child safety and embeds the Child Protected Standards across all services. All applicants are subject to child safety screening, including a Working With Children Check and reference checks. A criminal record check will be required for all final applicants - people with criminal records are not automatically barred and each application is considered on its merits.

Story House Early Learning is a proud equal opportunity employer.

*CCS eligible care. Conditions apply.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

📌 Centre Director (Melbourne)
🏢 Important Group
📍 Melbourne