Operations Manager

Operations Manager

Norwich Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
Bright Stars Nursery Group

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead and support nursery managers to ensure high-quality early years education.
  • Company: Dynamic organisation focused on early years education across central Scotland.
  • Benefits: Company car, performance bonus, 25+ days holiday, and professional development.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in children's lives and shape the future of early years education.
  • Qualifications: Experience in early years leadership and a Level 3 childcare qualification.
  • Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for continuous improvement and career growth.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

We are pleased to now offer a 75% childcare discount to our staff, supporting working parents in balancing their careers and family life.

Are you a confident, inspiring leader with a passion for early years education?

We’re seeking a dynamic and experienced Operations Manager to oversee a group of high-quality nursery settings across Norwich and the surrounding areas.

Bright Stars Nursery Group is more than just a group of individual nurseries; we are a close-knit community of passionate professionals committed to making a positive impact on the lives of children and families. Our ethos drives us to provide exceptional care, education, and support, ensuring that every child’s journey with us is filled with love, joy, and unlimited opportunities.

About the Role:

As Operations Manager, you’ll be responsible for the operational leadership of multiple nurseries. You’ll work closely with Nursery Managers and their teams to uphold outstanding standards of care, compliance, and education.

From leading quality audits to supporting occupancy growth and team development, this is a fast-paced, hands-on role ideal for someone who thrives in a leadership position and is passionate about high standards in early years.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead, coach, and support Nursery Managers across the region
  • Ensure compliance with Ofsted, EYFS, and company policies
  • Monitor occupancy and financial performance
  • Support recruitment, retention, and staff training
  • Act as a key link between settings and senior leadership
  • Champion safeguarding, inclusion, and health & safety
  • Drive a culture of continuous improvement and professional excellence

What We’re Looking For:

  • Experience in a senior or multi-site early years leadership role
  • Full and relevant Level 3 qualification in childcare (Level 5+ desirable)
  • Deep understanding of EYFS, Ofsted standards, and nursery operations
  • Inspirational leadership and strong communication skills
  • Approachable, organised, and solutions-focused
  • Able to travel between settings across Poole and surrounding areas

What We Offer:

  • We are pleased to now offer a 75% childcare discount to our staff, supporting working parents in balancing their careers and family life.
  • Paycare Medical Cover -contributions towards everything from dental and optical cover to free same day GP appointments and Lifestyle Assessment.
  • MyGym / MyActive discounts – up to 25% off your monthly gym fees and from all your gym clothing and equipment. All types of gyms covered, from David Lloyds to your local council-run leisure centre.
  • Paycare Perks – shopping discounts from over 300 High Street stores including Sainsburys, John Lewis, H&M, Boots and New Look.
  • Recommend a Friend – earn up to £1,500 for each recruit once you join us by recommending us to others you know.
  • Training and Development – benefit from our sector-leading, regular training programmes that helps us ensure every child in our care has the very best start for their lifetime of learning.
  • Plus 33 days holiday including bank holidays, employer pension contributions, car allowance and business mile contribution.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you\’re a passionate, values-driven leader who wants to shape the future of early years education, we’d love to hear from you.

Operations Manager employer: Bright Stars Nursery Group

Join a forward-thinking organisation that prioritises early years education and values its employees. As an Operations Manager, you will benefit from a supportive leadership culture, continuous professional development opportunities, and a competitive benefits package including a company car or travel allowance, an annual performance-related bonus, and generous holiday entitlement. This role offers the chance to make a meaningful impact across multiple nursery settings in central Scotland, fostering a nurturing environment for both children and staff alike.
Bright Stars Nursery Group

Contact Detail:

Bright Stars Nursery Group Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Operations Manager

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the early years education sector. Attend local events or workshops where you can meet nursery managers and other professionals. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised!

✨Tip Number 2

Showcase your leadership skills! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share specific examples of how you've led teams or improved operations in previous roles. This will help them see you as the inspiring leader they’re looking for.

✨Tip Number 3

Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out directly to nurseries you admire and express your interest in working with them. Sometimes, creating your own opportunity is the best way to land the job.

✨Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! We make it super easy for you to submit your application and showcase your passion for early years education. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and making a difference!

We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager

Leadership Skills
Early Years Education Knowledge
Compliance Management
Financial Performance Monitoring
Recruitment and Retention Strategies
Staff Training and Development
Communication Skills
Organisational Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Understanding of EYFS
Knowledge of Ofsted Standards
Safeguarding Practices
Health and Safety Awareness
Continuous Improvement Mindset

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for early years education shine through in your application. We want to see how your passion aligns with our mission to provide the best start in life for children.

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in early years leadership and operations. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead and inspire teams.

Be Clear and Concise: When writing your cover letter, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure you communicate your key achievements and how they relate to the role.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!

How to prepare for a job interview at Bright Stars Nursery Group

✨Know Your Stuff

Make sure you’re well-versed in the EYFS and Ofsted standards. Brush up on the latest regulations and best practices in early years education, as this will show your commitment to quality and compliance during the interview.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Style

Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Think about specific situations where you inspired others or drove improvements. This will help demonstrate your leadership skills and how you can support Nursery Managers effectively.

✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions

Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific challenges, like improving occupancy rates or managing staff training. Practise your responses to these scenarios so you can showcase your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking.

✨Ask Insightful Questions

Prepare thoughtful questions about the company culture, team dynamics, and expectations for the role. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the organisation aligns with your values and leadership style.

Operations Manager
Bright Stars Nursery Group
Location: Norwich

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