Job Description
On behalf of our client, a dual-site community childcare service provider, we are now recruiting a Manager to lead their team. This is a well-established community childcare service operating two facilities. The service comprises a creche and a pre‑chool/afterschool facility, providing vital early years and school-age childcare within the community.
Governed by a voluntary Board of Directors committed to excellence in governance, statutory compliance, and community service development, we are seeking an exceptional manager to lead operations into the next phase of growth and sustainability.
The Opportunity
This is a strategic leadership role offering a unique opportunity for an ambitious manager with strong commercial acumen to make a meaningful impact in the community childcare sector. We are particularly interested in candidates from commercial backgrounds, including those in commercial childcare settings, retail management, hospitality, or other service-oriented sectors, who can bring fresh perspectives and robust business management expertise to our operations.
The successful candidate will have overall responsibility for the management of both facilities, ensuring operational excellence, financial sustainability, regulatory compliance, and strategic development. You will work closely with the Board of Directors, who provide governance oversight while supporting your operational autonomy.
Key Responsibilities
Governance & Compliance
* Ensure the service meets all corporate governance standards and maintains exemplary compliance with TUSLA regulations
* Maintain perpetual audit-readiness for TUSLA inspections across both facilities
* Ensure adherence to all relevant legislation including childcare regulations, health and safety, employment law, and data protection
* Report regularly to the Board of Directors on all aspects of service delivery, compliance, and performance
Financial Management
* Take full responsibility for the financial wellbeing of both facilities
* Manage the profit and loss account, budgets, cashflow, and financial forecasting
* Implement cost-effective operational practices while maintaining service quality
* Provide comprehensive financial reports to the Board
Funding & Business Development
* Identify and pursue funding opportunities from government schemes, grants, and other sources
* Prepare and submit high-quality funding applications
* Develop strategic plans to grow and enhance service provision
* Maximise available funding to further develop services for the benefit of the local community
People Management
* Provide leadership and management to all staff across both facilities
* Conduct regular employee appraisals, support sessions, and supervision meetings
* Foster a positive, professional workplace culture focused on excellence in childcare
* Ensure appropriate staffing levels and skill mix in compliance with TUSLA ratios
* Manage recruitment, induction, training, and staff development
Operational Excellence
* Oversee day-to-day operations across both sites ensuring high-quality service delivery
* Implement and maintain policies, procedures, and best practices
* Manage stakeholder relationships including parents, staff, Board members, and statutory bodies
* Drive continuous improvement and service development initiatives
Applicants must demonstrate:
1. Management Experience: Minimum three years’ experience successfully managing teams of up to 20 employees, with proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop staff.
2. Financial Management: Minimum three years’ experience managing the profit and loss (P&L) account for a small business or service, with demonstrable financial acumen and business planning skills.
3. Funding Experience: Proven experience in applying for and securing funding or grants, and demonstrated ability to identify funding opportunities.
4. Experience reporting directly to a Board of Directors or senior governance body, with ability to prepare comprehensive reports and presentations.
5. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
6. Strong computer literacy including financial management software, Microsoft Office suite, and database management.
7. Willing to undergo Garda vetting.
* A recognised childcare qualification (e.g., FETAC Level 5 in Early Childhood Care and Education or equivalent) advantageous but not essential
* Previous experience in the childcare or early years sector advantageous but not essential
* Knowledge of TUSLA Early Years Education and Care regulations
* Experience in a community, social enterprise, or not-for-profit environment
* Understanding of the National Quality Framework for Early Years Education (Síolta and Aistear)
* Experience with quality assurance processes and continuous improvement methodologies
Professional Development Requirement
The successful candidate will be required to complete a Level 6 childcare qualification recognised by TUSLA within two years of appointment. Support will be provided for this professional development.
* Salary: Competitive salary commensurate with experience
* Annual Leave: 25 plus public holidays
* Pension: Employer contribution to employee’s personal pension arrangement
* Other Benefits: Flexible working arrangements.
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