Tired of leadership roles that feel more about KPIs than people?

At Kids First Children's Services, success looks different. For us, it means:
⭐ Families feel valued and supported
⭐ Clinicians have the space to deliver their best work
⭐ Customer service staff (the heart of our practice) feel empowered and appreciated
⭐ Our award-winning practice thrives with professionalism, integrity and care

🎥 Watch our 2-minute video to hear more about this opportunity

We're looking for an experienced Practice & Operations Manager - a committed leader who will bring their knowledge, skills and big-picture perspective to guide our team and our systems so children, families, staff and the clinic as a whole can thrive.

We welcome applications from both clinicians and non-clinical leaders. What matters most is your proven experience in leading people, strengthening systems, and ensuring the success of a busy, client-focused practice.

About the Role

This is not a clinical leadership role - our therapy team leaders provide mentoring and clinical guidance to their colleagues.

As Practice & Operations Manager, your focus is on the whole practice. You'll oversee both clinicians and customer service staff with warmth, clarity and confidence - ensuring everyone has what they need to succeed as professionals.

Your leadership will be about making work work:

Clear, simple systems that cut complexity and improve productivity

Accountability and feedback that help people grow and deliver their best

Structures and processes that support high standards without burnout

You'll bring people and systems together so that:

Clinicians have the space, structure and support to deliver consistent, high-quality care

Customer service staff feel confident managing enquiries, bookings and payments while creating a welcoming environment for families

The clinic as a whole runs smoothly, efficiently and sustainably - so every team member can do a great job at work, and then go home to live their lives

What We're Looking For

This role is for an experienced leader – whether you come from a clinical background (psychology, speech pathology, OT, education) or a non-clinical pathway (allied health practice management, education or community services). What matters is that you bring the knowledge, skills and commitment to lead people and systems with clarity and care.

You will also:

Bring proven people and operations management skills in allied health, education or community services

Balance accountability with empathy, kindness and respect

Coach, mentor and performance-manage staff with confidence

Collaborate well, listen deeply and make sound, values-led decisions

Communicate clearly and respectfully with staff and families

Navigate practice management systems, policies and procedures with ease

Bring knowledge of the NDIS (an advantage, but not essential)

Be looking for a role close to home if you live on (or near) Sydney's Northern Beaches

Key Responsibilities

As Practice & Operations Manager, you'll:

Lead and coach staff across both clinical and customer service teams so expectations are clear and people are supported to deliver their best work

Implement and refine systems that make workflows simple, efficient and reliable for clients and staff

Ensure accountability through regular feedback, performance conversations and clear goals

Balance caseloads and scheduling across disciplines so clinicians can focus on high-quality care and families experience continuity

Oversee compliance and processes to keep the practice professional, ethical and efficient

Work closely with the Director on strategy, practice development and sustainable growth - bringing both operational detail and big-picture thinking

Safeguard our reputation for professionalism, integrity and excellence in the Northern Beaches community

Why Join Us

For almost 19 years, Kids First Children's Services has proudly supported more than 35,000 children and families.

We're an award-winning multidisciplinary practice of psychologists, speech pathologists, occupational therapists and teachers. Our reputation is built on Care, Kindness, Compassion and Making a Contribution - values that guide everything we do.

At Kids First, balance - not burnout - is the priority. That means:

Daily admin time built into schedules

Early Finish Fridays

A supportive, collaborative culture where people and community come first

This role is central to our future, offering the chance to shape how Kids First continues to serve children and families for years to come.

How to Apply

If you're ready to bring your leadership skills, experience and commitment to a role where people - not just KPIs - come first, we'd love to hear from you.

⭐ Watch our 2-minute video and visit kids-first.com.au to learn more about who we are, what we do and why we do it.

👉 Apply now via SEEK with your cover letter and CV. In your cover letter, please include one example of how you've simplified a system or process to make work smoother for your team.

Or, if you'd prefer a confidential conversation before applying, give us a call ☎️ (02) 9938 5419.

Please Note: You must be an Australian permanent resident or citizen to be eligible for this role.