Operations Manager

A fast-growing and reputable early-years childcare and education provider is seeking an Operations Manager to deliver on their strategic priorities and make sure all sites are safe, well-maintained and fully compliant. The Operations Manager will have previous experience working in a similar operations role, ideally have experience working in an EYFS setting, and have proven experience executing company strategies. In addition, the Operations Manager will have excellent financial, leadership, communication, relationship-building and problem-solving skills. You must know H&S legislation and have HR/personnel development experience.

Having successfully achieved the Investors in People standard at their main site, our client is now rolling this approach out across the entire organisation. This reflects a long-term commitment to developing its people, strengthening leadership, and ensuring employees experience the same high standards of support and development wherever they work.

Key Responsibilities

Deliver the Company’s strategic priorities and agreed objectives, ensuring progress is tracked and reported

Have all sites meet or exceed agreed KPIs and work with senior management to create these metrics

Be responsible for keeping all sites fully Ofsted and EYFS compliant, ensuring all safeguarding policies are current and designated leads are trained

Be involved and provide input in the due diligence for future acquisitions

Be responsible for future site launches and work with the relevant authorities to ensure operational readiness

Keep staffing levels across sites always maintained at or above required ratios

Be the key point of contact for nursery managers and be accountable for their performance and development

Oversee the quality of all sites, identify any best practices and share across the group

Make sure all site H&S legislation is fully compliant and that all sites are kept safe, clean and well-maintained

Work with the Finance Manager to ensure each site operates within the agreed budget

Oversee the Company’s timesheet system and work with the Support Manager to report key data to aid in future planning

Review and update all nursery policies and procedures

Handle any complaints professionally and promptly, in line with policy

Be responsible for enrolling the Investors in People programme to other sites across the business

Ensure families are informed, welcomed and valued, while maintaining a positive atmosphere at all sites

Be responsible for the content and tone of all staff-facing internal communications, aligning with the Company’s values

Oversee the Before & After School Club operations and make sure they are run to the same high standards as the nurseries

Renew all Company-related affiliations and insurances

Make sure the Company operates in full compliance with UK GDPR and data protection legislation

Be prepared to lead the Company and cover for any business-related matters during the CEO’s absence

Knowledge, skills and qualifications required:

Proven experience working as an Operations Manager or similar

Demonstrated ability to develop and execute strategies aligned with organisational goals

Be able to manage across multiple sites simultaneously

Excellent financial acumen, including budget management and cost control

Strong communication, leadership, relationship-building, problem-solving, and teamwork skills

Thorough working knowledge of health and safety legislation

Have some experience with HR and personnel development experience

Is ambitious and driven

Is professional and discreet

Desirable:

Expert and current knowledge of the EYFS framework and Ofsted inspection methodology

Holds or is working towards a senior safeguarding qualification

Salary: £48,000 - £55,000

Benefits: yearly bonus, 31 days annual leave incl. bank holidays + add. 2 days & birthday leave, 1 free childcare place