Because Exceptional Early Learning Starts with Exceptional People
Step straight into a leadership role with full autonomy
Up to $145k salary package for the right candidate
Step into a leadership role at a purpose-built, modern 40 place centre where your leadership directly impacts children, staff, and families
12-month fixed term parental leave cover - possible temp to perm position
Family-owned, values-driven organisation that respects your expertise and time
About Smart Cookies
Smart Cookies
is a proudly family-owned childcare provider with over 11 years of experience with services in Liverpool, Beecroft and Ermington and is recognised for delivering exceptional early childhood education through genuine relationships, solid community values and a personalised approach to care. Our close-knit team is passionate about creating environments where children thrive, families feel connected, and educators feel genuinely valued and supported.
At
Smart Cookies
, we believe that by investing in our team and nurturing a positive culture creates and enriching environment for children, families and educators. We celebrate our people through initiatives such as Employee of the Month, regular team events, ongoing professional development, and genuine support from an experienced family-led leadership team. We believe exceptional leaders deserve to be recognised, empowered and supported to grow.
About the Opportunity
We are seeking an experienced and inspiring
Centre Director
to join our warm community-focused service in
Liverpool, NSW
.
This position is offered as a
12-month fixed-term parental leave cover
, with the
possibility of ongoing employment as a permanent Centre Director
or another suitable leadership chance
beyond the initial term




within the Smart Cookies Group. You'll be fully responsible for day-to-day leadership and operational management of a
boutique 40-place centre
.
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 solid relationships with children, families and the wider community.
More specifically, your responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Leading daily operations of the service, ensuring compliance and quality standards
Managing rosters, staff performance, and team engagement
Handling budgets, reporting, and all financial aspects, including P&L;
Building strong relationships with families and the local community
Maintaining high standards in safety, care, and regulatory documentation
Overseeing Assessment & Rating processes and continuous improvement planning
About You
To qualify, you will need a minimum of a
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
and prior experience as a Centre Director or Nominated Supervisor. A minimum of
2+ years in a leadership role within early childhood education
is essential.
You'll also hold:
Current Working With Children Check & Police Check
First Aid, CPR,



Asthma & Anaphylaxis certifications
Accredited Child Protection Training Certificate
National Child Safety Training Certificate
Permanent work rights in Australia
The following will also be highly valued:
Thorough understanding of the NQF, EYLF, ECEC National Law and Regulations
Strong understanding and implementation of paramount consideration and child safety
Excellent leadership, communication, organisation and time-management skills
Proven success navigating A&R; and compliance standards
Experience managing small teams in tight-knit environments
Confidence in rostering, budgeting, and centre administration
A proactive approach with the ability to work autonomously and take initiative
You're a confident and experienced leader who takes pride in creating high-quality learning environments and building strong, supportive teams. You enjoy what you do, lead by example, and genuinely care about helping your educators grow. This role suits someone who thrives in a close-knit setting where their impact is visible every day.
About the Benefits
Your experience and leadership will be rewarded with a competitive annual salary of
$110,000 – $115,000 + super
, plus:
Worker Retention Payment
Up to
50% childcare discount
for your child (gap fee)
Ongoing
professional development
and
career progression
opportunities
A
well-established, close-knit service
with a strong community focus
A high degree of
autonomy and genuine leadership
impact
Support from an experienced,
family-owned
leadership team
Employee recognition programs
including Employee of the Month
Regular team celebrations
and
social events
#J-*****-Ljbffr

📌 Centre Director (Sydney)
🏢 Smart Cookies Early Learning Centre
📍 Sydney