Regional Operations Manager

At ECMS, we’re proud to be a not-for-profit community organisation that’s all about making a difference in the lives of children and families. With 76 kindergartens and early learning services across Melbourne, our team of 1100+ dedicated people work together to create joyful and enriching learning experiences with the safeguarding of children at the centre of everything we do. For us, it’s more than just early learning, it’s about building connections, nurturing growth, and being part of something truly meaningful in our communities.

We're looking for an experienced Regional Operations Manager to drive operational performance, compliance and service quality at ECMS services across multiple LGAs.

Why ECMS?

We offer award winning professional development opportunities including unlimited access to online resources, in house practice coaching team, annual conference and PD days

We're committed to making a positive impact in our communities – we’re a proud place based, for purpose, not for profit, who put people at the centre of our work

Generous salary and salary packaging, hybrid work from home options, and a car allowance

Generous benefits – 50% childcare discount, discounts to hundreds of major retailers, paid parental leave, funded first aid and monthly RDO

We have a supportive and inclusive culture where everyone feels valued and appreciated – 84% of our team recommend ECMS as a great place to work!

About you

You hold a Bachelor-level qualification in early childhood education, management, or related discipline

You have proven experience leading multi-site operational teams in early childhood education and care or a related human services sector

You are a natural problem solver, able to build relationship with others and adapt as required

You can demonstrate the ability to identify development initiatives, pilot and demonstrate projects that enhance an organisations standing in the broader sector

You show a strong ability to utilise critical thinking and sound judgement when making decisions in complex situations

You have understanding of the National Quality Framework, WHS and Child Safe Standards, and service-level compliance requirements

You have experience managing service budgets and driving operational improvement across geographically dispersed locations

You champion an evidence-based approach, proactively utilising data and insight to continuously improve services

You hold a current Victorian Driver's Licence, a current Working with Children's Check (WWCC), a satisfactory national police check and have current training completion certificates for 'Protecting Children - Mandatory Reporting and Other Obligations for the Early Childhood Sector' and 'Foundations of Child Safety Training'.

About the role

The Regional Operations Manager leads a team of Area Managers to oversee the operational performance, compliance and service quality of ECMS services across multiple LGAs. The role ensures that services operate efficiently, safely and sustainably, that service leaders are supported to deliver Exceeding practice, and that operations are aligned with ECMS’ pedagogical and practice frameworks, regulatory requirements and reform priorities.

Join us in shaping the future of early education!

ECMS is committed to the safety, wellbeing and inclusion of all children. Successful applicants are required to adhere to our child safe practices and policies located on our website. Applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and people from diverse communities and backgrounds are encouraged.

If you're passionate about early childhood education and care, and you're looking for a rewarding career with a supportive and inclusive organisation, we encourage you to apply today!