At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and support multiple nurseries, ensuring high standards of care and education.
- Company: Join a growing nursery group dedicated to excellence in early years education.
- Benefits: Enjoy 75% childcare discount, medical cover, gym discounts, and generous holiday allowance.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for ongoing training and career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in operational leadership within early years and strong people management skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Regional Director to join our growing nursery group. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate leader with strong operational experience within early years education to oversee multiple nursery settings across the North of England and drive excellence across the organisation.
About the Role
As Regional Director, you will take overall responsibility for the day-to-day operational performance of several nurseries within the group. You will lead and support individual Operations Managers and Nursery Managers to ensure high standards of care, education, compliance, occupancy, staff performance, and customer satisfaction are consistently achieved. This is a hands-on leadership role requiring excellent organisational, people management, and strategic planning skills.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee the daily operations of multiple nursery settings across the group
- Lead, mentor, and support individual Operations Managers and Nursery Managers
- Ensure all nurseries maintain compliance with Ofsted, safeguarding, health & safety, and statutory requirements
- Monitor nursery performance including occupancy, staffing, budgets, and parent satisfaction
- Drive operational efficiency and implement best practices across all settings
- Support recruitment, retention, and development of high-performing teams
- Conduct regular site visits, audits, and operational reviews
- Work closely with senior leadership to support business growth and strategic objectives
- Manage escalated operational issues and provide effective solutions
- Promote a positive culture focused on high-quality childcare and team wellbeing
Requirements
- Proven experience in a senior operational leadership role within the nursery or early years sector
- Strong knowledge of Ofsted regulations and safeguarding requirements
- Experience managing multiple sites or settings
- Excellent leadership and people management skills
- Commercial awareness with experience managing budgets and performance targets
- Ability to build strong relationships with staff, parents, and stakeholders
- Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel between settings
What We Offer
- 75% childcare discount to support working families
- Paycare Medical Cover – including dental, optical, and same-day GP access
- MyGym / MyActive discounts – save on gym memberships and fitness gear
- Paycare Perks – discounts at over 300 high street retailers
- Recommend a Friend – earn up to £1,500 per referral
- Ongoing training and development, with a clear pathway to Operations Manager
- 33 days holiday including bank holidays
- Employer pension contributions
- Car allowance and business mileage contribution
Safeguarding Commitment
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All staff are expected to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be required to complete:
- Enhanced DBS check
- Employment references
- Qualification verification
- Right to work checks
- Full safer recruitment compliance
All offers are subject to satisfactory clearance in line with our Safeguarding Policy.
Early Years Operations Manager in Chester employer: Bright Stars Nursery Group
Join our vibrant nursery group as an Early Years Operations Manager, where we prioritise a supportive and collaborative work culture that fosters professional growth. With generous benefits such as a 75% childcare discount, comprehensive medical cover, and ongoing training opportunities, we are dedicated to nurturing both our staff and the children in our care. Located in the North of England, this role offers the chance to make a meaningful impact across multiple settings while enjoying a healthy work-life balance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Early Years Operations Manager in Chester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the early years sector and let them know you're on the hunt for an Operations Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get social! Follow companies you're interested in on LinkedIn and engage with their posts. This not only shows your interest but also helps you stay updated on any job openings they might post. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with potential future colleagues.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s values and recent achievements. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in areas like compliance and operational efficiency. We want to see that passion shine through!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to go directly to the source.
We think you need these skills to ace Early Years Operations Manager in Chester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Early Years Operations Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience in early years education and operational leadership, showing us why you're the perfect fit for our nursery group.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:We want to see your people management skills shine! Share examples of how you've led teams, mentored staff, and driven performance in previous roles. This will help us understand your approach to leadership in a nursery setting.
Demonstrate Your Knowledge of Regulations:Since compliance is key in our sector, make sure to mention your understanding of Ofsted regulations and safeguarding requirements. This shows us that you’re not just experienced but also aware of the standards we uphold.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bright Stars Nursery Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on Ofsted regulations and safeguarding requirements. Being well-versed in these areas will show that you’re serious about the role and understand the importance of compliance in early years education.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Think about specific situations where you mentored others or improved team performance. This will help demonstrate your capability to lead multiple nursery settings effectively.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle operational challenges or improve nursery performance. Practise your responses to these scenarios, focusing on your strategic planning and problem-solving skills.
✨Highlight Your People Skills
Since this role involves building relationships with staff, parents, and stakeholders, be prepared to discuss how you foster positive working environments. Share stories that illustrate your ability to connect with people and promote a culture of high-quality childcare.
