At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage multiple nurseries, ensuring quality and compliance in early years education.
- Company: RAFAKidz provides exceptional childcare for Armed Forces and civilian families across the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days annual leave, an electric company car, childcare discounts, and flexible working options.
- Other info: National travel required; must have a UK driving licence.
- Why this job: Join a values-driven organisation making a real impact on children's lives and family support.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing early years settings and a relevant degree-level qualification preferred.
The predicted salary is between 45410 - 47800 £ per year.
Location: National travel required (UK driving licence essential)
Package: Includes electric company car
Base: Leicester HQ (with weekly national travel and overnight stays)
£45410 - £47800
About RAFAKidz
RAFAKidz is on a mission to provide exceptional, affordable childcare tailored to the unique needs of Armed Forces and civilian families. With nurseries located on or near RAF and MOD stations across the UK, we are proud to be fully OFSTED-registered and committed to safeguarding, quality, and excellence. We work closely with children, families, and partner organisations to ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive. Our strong ties to the RAF and the RAF Association help us deliver a curriculum and environment that supports the needs of serving families.
The Role
As Operations Manager (South), you will lead the strategic and operational delivery of RAFAKidz nurseries across your region. Reporting to the Executive Director of RAFAKidz, you will lead a team of Nursery Managers to effectively embed our vision, values, and standards of excellence.
This is a strategic leadership role requiring a strong business mindset, a passion for early years education, and a hands-on approach. You will:
- Oversee the operational performance and development of multiple RAFAKidz nursery settings.
- Ensure compliance with the EYFS and all Statutory Frameworks and Legislation.
- Drive quality improvement and best practice across your region.
- Manage budgets, occupancy, staffing, and financial sustainability.
- Provide exceptional organisational leadership, mentoring, professional development and inspirational line management to Nursery Managers.
- Drive improvement in customer service, stakeholder satisfaction and employee engagement, retention and performance across your region.
- Represent RAFAKidz in partnerships with external agencies and stakeholders.
A full role profile and person specification is available at www.rafakidz.org.uk.
About You
We are looking for a confident, business focused and experienced multi-site leader with a proven record of success in the following areas:
- Significant experience managing a large group of early years settings (10 or more)
- In-depth knowledge of the EYFS, OFSTED, and statutory and legislative frameworks.
- A proven track record of leading and developing high performing teams across a wide geographical remit.
- Strong analytical and reporting skills
- Excellent communication and influencing abilities.
- A relevant early year’s qualification (degree-level preferred).
What We Offer
- A rewarding role in a values-driven organisation.
- 33 days annual leave (including public holidays and Christmas closure).
- Electric company car.
- Childcare discounts.
- Free on-site parking and shower facilities.
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
- Flexible working and travel support.
How to Apply
To apply, please ensure your CV is up to date and clearly demonstrates how your experience aligns with the role. A cover letter outlining your interest and suitability is strongly encouraged. For an informal chat about the role, call us on 0800 018 2361. Apply via our website www.rafakidz.org.uk
Closing date 8am Monday 7 July
Please note important dates below
- First stage online interviews 22 and 24 July
- Assessment day 1 August
RAFAKidz and the RAF Association are proud to be Disability Confident Employers. If you require any adjustments during the application process, please let us know. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK as we are unable to offer sponsorship.
RAFAKidz Nurseries Operations Manager (South) in Carterton employer: RAF Association
RAFAKidz is an exceptional employer dedicated to providing meaningful and rewarding employment in the childcare sector. With a strong commitment to employee development, a values-driven work culture, and generous benefits including 33 days of annual leave and an electric company car, we ensure our Operations Manager has the support needed to thrive while making a positive impact on the lives of children and families. Our unique ties to the Armed Forces community foster a collaborative environment where every team member can grow and contribute to our mission of excellence in early years education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land RAFAKidz Nurseries Operations Manager (South) in Carterton
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the EYFS and OFSTED frameworks, as well as the specific needs of Armed Forces families. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role and its unique challenges.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in early years education and childcare management. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with others in the field, which can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience managing multiple sites effectively. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've improved operational performance and team development in previous roles, as this will be crucial for the Operations Manager position.
✨Tip Number 4
Research RAFAKidz's mission and values thoroughly. Understanding their commitment to quality childcare for Armed Forces families will allow you to align your answers during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace RAFAKidz Nurseries Operations Manager (South) in Carterton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is up to date and specifically highlights your experience in managing early years settings. Use keywords from the job description, such as 'EYFS', 'OFSTED', and 'multi-site leader' to demonstrate your suitability.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that outlines your interest in the Operations Manager role and how your background aligns with RAFAKidz's mission. Be sure to mention your leadership experience and passion for early years education.
Highlight Relevant Experience:In both your CV and cover letter, emphasise your significant experience managing multiple early years settings. Provide specific examples of how you've driven quality improvement and team development in previous roles.
Prepare for Interviews:If selected for an interview, be ready to discuss your strategic approach to operational management and how you would ensure compliance with EYFS and statutory frameworks. Think about examples that showcase your analytical skills and ability to lead high-performing teams.
How to prepare for a job interview at RAF Association
✨Know Your EYFS and OFSTED
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and OFSTED regulations. Be prepared to discuss how you would ensure compliance and drive quality improvement in the nurseries.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
Highlight your experience in managing multiple early years settings. Share specific examples of how you've led teams, improved performance, and developed staff in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Business Acumen
Since this role requires a strong business mindset, be ready to discuss your experience with budgeting, financial sustainability, and operational performance. Prepare to explain how you would manage these aspects effectively.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities. Think about challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you overcame them, especially in a multi-site context.
