Nurseries Operations Manager North in Leicester

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.

As an Operations Manager 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.

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 (5 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 years qualification (degree-level preferred).

What We Offer:

• Enhanced childcare discount of 40% for permanent employees.
• Healthcare cash back for you and your children to cover prescription, dental and optician costs.
• Free access to virtual GP.
• Health and Stress Support plus gym discount.
• Unlimited Refer a Friend bonus payments.
• Generous leave with time off to relax and recharge over the Christmas period.
• Group Associate Membership savings and discounts on household bills and more!
• Guaranteed transfer to another nursery (for spouses and families being reassigned).
• Preparing for promotion? We pay travel and overnight expenses to allow you to experience another of our fabulous settings.
• First Stage Informal Telephone Interviews - let's get to know each other before arranging a visit.
• Opportunities to attend gala evenings to celebrate our big nominations and wins together!

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. Apply via our website rafakidz.org.uk

Closing date 8am Thursday 8 October however interviews are ongoing and we may close this advert so please do not delay in applying, we'd love to hear from you! 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.