Centre Manager/Director

Come and join Thrive and be part of something rewarding

About Thrive

Since opening our doors in 2016, Thrive Early Learning Centres has grown into a trusted name in early childhood education, with 12 thriving centres across NSW and VIC. We're proud to be 100% Australian owned and privately operated, supporting over 2,500 children and employing more than 300 passionate professionals.

Our vision is simple but powerful:

"Committed to children's futures by creating lifelong learning experiences in rich, stimulating environments where children and families feel secure and supported."

Why Thrive?

At Thrive, we know that our people are the heart of everything we do. That's why we're committed to supporting you both professionally and personally with:

Bonus Program – Earn a percentage of your salary in bonuses

Birthday Leave – Celebrate YOU with a paid day off on your birthday

Discounted Childcare – Enjoy up to 90% off the gap fee

Refer a Friend Bonus – Recommend great people and receive a bonus in return

Career Progression – Grow with us through tailored development pathways

Funded Training – We cover your First Aid, CPR, and Child Protection training

Hero Points & Perks – Access discounts and cashback at 1,000+ retailers

Work-Life Balance – Flexible working conditions that support your lifestyle

Diverse & Inclusive Team – Be part of a welcoming, collaborative community

Open Communication – Your voice matters at Thrive

Centre Leader Opportunity – Thrive Drysdale (VIC)

We're beyond excited to announce our brand-new, purpose-built centre coming to Drysdale, VIC, opening early 2026. This 100-place centre will be our second location in Victoria – and we're looking for a passionate and experienced Centre Leader (Manager/Director) to lead it from the very beginning.

This is your chance to be part of something from the ground up – shaping the team, culture, and future of the centre

About the Role

As Centre Leader, you'll be 100% off the floor so you can focus on the big picture – delivering quality, compliance, and a nurturing culture in line with the National Quality Framework and Thrive's philosophy.

You'll also stay connected to our wider network of Centre Leaders, with regular opportunities to collaborate and learn together at our Sydney Support Office.

And yes – your dedication will be rewarded with a generous bonus program on top of your base salary

Your Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the daily operations of the centre with confidence and care
• Inspire and guide your team to deliver exceptional learning and documentation
• Build strong, lasting relationships with families and the local community
• Champion our 'Learning for Life' curriculum and Thrive values
• Foster a positive, engaged, and motivated educator team

About You

You're a natural leader with a genuine passion for early childhood education and a drive to make a lasting impact. You'll bring:

• A Bachelor of Teaching (or equivalent) or Diploma in Early Childhood
• Strong knowledge of the EYLF and National Quality Standards
• Excellent communication skills – both written and verbal
• Confidence with digital tools and technology (Kindm8 experience a bonus)
• A warm, collaborative leadership style that uplifts others

Ready to Thrive?

If you're ready to lead a new centre with the confidence and experience you've built over your career, this is your opportunity, we'd love to hear from you

Apply now or get in touch with Katie Histon, Talent Partner for a confidential chat on

Let's shape the future of early learning, together.

At Thrive Early Learning, we are committed to being a child-safe organisation, with a zero-tolerance approach to child abuse and neglect. Every employee plays an important role in ensuring the safety and well-being of children in our care. All candidates will undergo thorough background checks, including a Working with Children Check (WWCC), and must comply with our child protection policies to maintain a safe, secure, and supportive environment.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Childcare assistance
• Employee discount
• Referral program

Work Authorisation:

• Australia (Required)

Work Location: In person