At Sparkways, we believe that every child deserves a strong foundation for lifelong success. Our mission is to provide high-quality early childhood education that sparks curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning in young children. We are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and stimulating environment where children can explore, play, and grow. We are here to spark change! Learn more: https://sparkways.org.au
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced and values-driven Area Manager to lead the operations and quality of a portfolio of early learning services across Melbourne.
Reporting to the Senior Area Manager, this role provides strategic and operational leadership to teachers, educators and service leaders to ensure high-quality, safe and sustainable early childhood services. You will work closely with other Area Managers, the Head of Early learning and internal
support teams and external stakeholders to drive strong outcomes for children, families and communities.
This role is primarily service-based, with time spent across centres, support hub offices and remote work.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and support Nominated Supervisors, Educational Leaders, Teachers and Educators across multiple services
- Oversee day-to-day operations of a portfolio of kindergartens and early learning services
- Ensure services meet National Quality Standards, regulations and legislative requirement
- In partnership with our Pedagogy and Practice Partners, coach and mentor leaders to deliver high-quality pedagogical practice
- Manage budgets, staffing and operational performance across services
- Drive continuous improvement and quality outcomes, including Assessment and Rating readiness
- Build strong partnerships with families, communities, Local Government Authorities and the Department of Education
- Collaborate with internal teams including pedagogy, operations, people and culture, and compliance
About You
To succeed in this role, you will be an experienced early childhood leader with strong operational capability and a passion for quality early learning.
Essential
- Bachelor Degree in Early Childhood Education (or equivalent approved qualification)
- Demonstrated experience managing multiple early childhood education and care services
(multi-site leadership)
- Proven experience leading and developing teams of teachers and educators
- Strong knowledge of National Quality Framework, regulations and early childhood
frameworks
- Experience managing budgets, workforce planning and service performance
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
- Valid Victorian Driver’s Licence
Highly Regarded
- Additional qualifications in leadership, management or educational leadership
- Experience working with local government partnerships and community-based services
Why Join Sparkways
- Make a genuine impact in an organisation that supports communities and positive outcomes for children and families.
- Enjoy a supportive team environment that values professional growth and
wellbeing.
- Access hybrid working arrangements and ongoing development opportunities.
- Be part of an organisation committed to innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Learn more: https://sparkways.org.au
Child safety and inclusiveness
Sparkways and all our Centres are committed to child safety. The protection and wellbeing of children and young persons is reflected in our zero tolerance for child abuse. All staff and volunteers have a moral and legal responsibility to ensure that young people are safe whilst involved in our care
and programs. All children have the right to safety and security and the protection from physical, emotional, verbal, and sexual abuse and neglect.
Sparkways is a child safe and equal employment opportunity employer. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, from people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and from people with a disability.
Are you ready to make your spark at Sparkways?
Apply now with your resume and a cover letter outlining your experience and motivation for joining the role and working with Sparkways. If you have any questions,
please email Kavya Ramakrishnegowda at Kavya.ramakrishnegowda@sparkways.org.au
