• Location: The main office is located at Gowanbrae Children’s Centre, 2A Marigold Crescent, Gowanbrae VIC 3043
• Employment Type: Full-Time

About Us

Merri-bek Early Years Management (MEYM) Incorporated was established in 2018 in response to a desire in the community for a locally based, responsive and collaborative early years manager. The creation of MEYM was a partnership between Merri-bek Council, the Department of Education and individual community-based kindergartens.

Merri-bek Early Years Management has grown to be a leader in early childhood education, dedicated to providing high-quality learning environments for young children. MEYM is committed to providing exemplary early years programs that are delivered by skilled early years professionals to children and families in the Merri-bek municipality. We currently operate eight kindergartens across Merri-bek, each committed to nurturing the growth, development, and well-being of every child. We are seeking an experienced General Manager to continue to develop, drive and oversee the operations of all our kindergartens, ensuring they maintain the highest standards of excellence.

Position Overview

As the General Manager, you will be responsible for the overall management and success of all aspects of Merri-bek Early Years Management. The day-to-day operations of MEYM are managed by the General Manager who operates in a highly regulated environment and actively manages the financial, administrative, service delivery and human resources areas of the organisation.

The General Manager is guided by the organisational Strategic Plan and reports to the MEYM Board of Management. The General Manager is supported by a dedicated and professional administration and office team, including an Area Manager and a Early Childhood Curriculum and Support Manager.

The General Manager ensures that our kindergartens operate efficiently, comply with all regulatory requirements, and provide a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for the children.

Key Responsibilities

• Leadership & Management: Report to the Board of Merri-bek Early Years Management. Lead, mentor, and support the Area Manager, Early Childhood Curriculum and Support Manager and Administrative team to support Kindergarten Service Coordinators and staff to maintain a positive and productive working environment.
• Quality Assurance: Monitor and evaluate the quality of all educational programs, ensuring consistency and excellence across all kindergartens.
• Budget & Financial Management: Develop and manage budgets, monitor financial performance, and implement cost-effective solutions to maintain profitability, with the support of the Executive Finance Officer to ensure a break-even budget is delivered in line with the not-for-profit ideaology.
• Compliance & Safety: Ensure all Kindergartens comply with local, state, and federal regulations, including health and safety standards.
• Community Relations: Foster strong relationships the community, addressing concerns and ensuring satisfaction.
• Strategic Planning: Lead the development, implementation and review of long-term strategies for growth and improvement.
• Reporting and Governance: Provide regular reports to the Board on the performance and progress of all Kindergartens. Ensure governance requirements of an incorporated associated/registered charity are met.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education n, Business Administration, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Senior leadership experience in an Early Childhood Education and Care setting or in a comparable organisation with a focus on governance.

• Experience in working with a Board of Management of an incorporated association and a thorough understanding of relevant governance requirements.
• Proven experience in managing multiple sites or locations.
• Strong leadership, communication, negotiation and interpersonal skills.
• In-depth knowledge of early childhood education principles, practices, and regulations.
• Ability to multitask, prioritise, and make sound decisions under pressure.
• Financial acumen with experience in budgeting and financial management.
• Passionate about early childhood education and committed to fostering nurturing and sustainable environments for young children.

Benefits

• An attractive remuneration package will be negotiated with the successful candidate.
• A great opportunity to lead a highly skilled and committed team in a progressive and innovative Early Years organisation.
• A challenging and varied executive role supported by a dynamic Board of Management.
• Professional development opportunities.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment with a positive can-do culture.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter detailing their experience and qualifications via the "Apply Now" button. 

Merri-bek Early Years Management is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace.

A position description is attached.