General Manager | Lead Growth and Quality Across a Family-Run ECE Group | Central Coast / Newcastle


About the Opportunity

This is a rare opportunity to lead the next phase of growth for a quality focused, family run early learning provider.

Starting with one established service and new centres in development, this role is perfect for a hands on strategic leader ready to build strong teams, systems and culture from the ground up.

As General Manager, you will oversee operations, compliance, people and financial performance across multiple sites. You will report directly to the owners and play a pivotal role in scaling the business sustainably while maintaining its reputation for quality care and community connection.

This position suits a senior leader with strong operational management experience, financial acumen and a proactive, values driven approach to leadership.

About the Provider

This provider is family owned and guided by a long term vision to deliver outstanding early learning experiences built on trust, quality and connection.

They value collaboration, transparency and innovation - balancing commercial success with genuine community impact.

As they prepare to expand their service network, they are seeking a capable, forward thinking General Manager who can blend strategic oversight with practical leadership and inspire others to deliver excellence every day.

Your Role

As General Manager, you will:

• Lead and mentor Centre Directors and key support managers
• Oversee daily operations, quality, and compliance across all sites
• Develop and deliver strategic growth plans in partnership with the owners
• Monitor financial performance, budgets and reporting
• Build and maintain a strong, values-based culture across all teams
• Drive continuous improvement and operational efficiency
• Represent the organisation with integrity across families, staff and partners

You will have the trust and autonomy to make an impact - supported by owners who value quality, collaboration and long term vision.

About You

You are a capable and strategic leader who thrives on balancing big picture thinking with operational detail.

You bring sound business acumen, strong people leadership and a deep understanding of quality in early learning.

You will bring:

• Experience leading multi site early learning or similar service operations
• Strong understanding of the NQF, NQS and regulatory compliance
• Proven ability to build culture and mentor high performing teams
• Financial management experience, including budgeting and forecasting
• Strategic and commercial mindset with practical delivery capability
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Relevant tertiary qualification in Early Childhood, Business or Management

Why You Will Want This Role

• $140,000 to $160,000 plus super and performance bonuses
• Influence and autonomy to shape strategic direction
• Opportunity to lead expansion and build strong centre teams
• Family-run provider with authentic values and growth potential
• Supportive owners who value quality and people first

Child Safeguarding

You will understand and promote the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations and hold (or be willing to obtain) a valid NSW Working With Children Check plus reference and national criminal history checks.

What Now

Sound like the leadership opportunity you have been waiting for?
Apply confidentially via the link or contact Firefly HR at [email protected].

Not sure if it is the right fit? That is okay. Reach out anyway - you will be listened to, not sold to.

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