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- Tasks: Lead a charity that transforms lives through early years and family services.
- Company: The Sunshine Centre, a valued community hub in Banbury.
- Benefits: Make a meaningful impact while leading a passionate team.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a respected organisation and improve outcomes for families.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in early years or community settings with strong safeguarding knowledge.
- Other info: Join a supportive team and enjoy a hands-on leadership role.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Lead a charity that changes lives every single day. The Sunshine Centre is a well-established and highly valued community hub, supporting children and families across Banbury through early years provision, family services and strong local partnerships. We are now looking for an exceptional Director to lead the organisation into its next phase - someone who can balance strategic leadership with hands-on operational delivery, while continuing to build on the Centre's strong reputation. This is a rare opportunity to lead a purpose-driven organisation where your impact will be visible, meaningful and genuinely valued within the community.
The role
- Provide clear strategic leadership and deliver the Centre's long-term vision
- Oversee day-to-day operations across early years provision, childcare and family services
- Lead and develop a team of 30-35 staff, including the Senior Leadership Team
- Ensure high standards of safeguarding, compliance and regulation (including Ofsted)
- Take ownership of financial sustainability, including budgeting, fundraising and income generation
- Drive continuous improvement, responding to community needs and feedback
- Act as a visible ambassador, building strong relationships with families, partners and stakeholders
This is a hands-on leadership role, requiring both strategic thinking and close involvement in day-to-day delivery.
About you
You’ll be a confident, values-led leader with the ability to inspire others and deliver real impact. You will bring:
- Proven leadership experience within early years, childcare, charity or community settings
- Experience working in regulated environments (e.g. Ofsted), with strong safeguarding knowledge
- A track record of securing funding through fundraising, bid writing or income generation
- Strong financial and commercial awareness
- The ability to turn strategy into practical delivery
- Experience leading and developing high-performing teams
- A genuine passion for improving outcomes for children and families
Why join the Sunshine Centre?
- Lead a respected, community-rooted organisation with a strong local impact
- Shape the future strategy and long-term sustainability of the Centre
- Work with a committed team and supportive Board of Trustees
- Make a meaningful difference to children, families and the wider community
Additional information
Closing date: 9am, Tuesday 14 April 2026
Start date: As soon as possible
Recruitment Process
This role is being advertised via Employ Direct, a service provided by Cameo Consultancy. As this is an advertising-only service, we are not involved in the selection process. All suitable applications will be forwarded directly to the employer, who will contact shortlisted candidates to arrange interviews.
Centre Director - Early Years in Oxford employer: Cameo Consultancy
Contact Detail:
Cameo Consultancy Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Centre Director - Early Years in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the early years and charity sectors. Attend local events or workshops, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have a lead on that perfect Centre Director role!
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or during interviews, make sure to express your genuine love for improving outcomes for children and families. Your enthusiasm can set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Research the Sunshine Centre and its community impact. Think about how your experience aligns with their mission and be ready to share specific examples of your leadership and operational successes.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who want to make a difference, so don’t hesitate to put yourself out there!
We think you need these skills to ace Centre Director - Early Years in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for improving outcomes for children and families shine through. We want to see how your values align with our mission at The Sunshine Centre.
Be Specific About Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your proven leadership experience in early years or community settings. We’re looking for concrete examples of how you've made an impact, so don’t hold back!
Tailor Your Application: Take the time to tailor your application to the role. Mention specific aspects of the job description that resonate with you and how your skills can help us achieve our long-term vision.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures it gets to the right people. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cameo Consultancy
✨Know the Sunshine Centre Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you research The Sunshine Centre thoroughly. Understand its mission, values, and the specific services it offers. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the role and the community it serves.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a potential Centre Director, it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership style during the interview. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, particularly in early years or community settings. Highlight your ability to inspire others and drive positive change.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities. Think about challenges you might face in this role, such as safeguarding issues or financial sustainability, and prepare thoughtful responses that showcase your strategic thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Engage with the Board's Vision
Since you'll be working closely with the Board of Trustees, it's important to align your vision with theirs. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to the Centre's long-term strategy and sustainability. Show enthusiasm for collaborating with them to enhance the Centre's impact on the community.