Centre Manager

Job Title: Full Time Early Childhood Centre Manager - Delacombe

Salary field: Approx $100,000 - $110,000 (dependent on experience) + Super + Bonus

Job Summary:

Tradewind Australia is recruiting for a Centre Manager for an excellent Early Learning Centre, based in Delacombe, Vic to start in September 2025.

• Permanent, Ongoing Position across Monday - Friday
• Interview tips and preparation provided
• Work with a dedicated consultant who will walk you through the application process
• ASAP Start

About the Role:

Tradewind Australia | Early Learning Centre Manager| Delacombe

Tradewind Australia is proud to be partnering with a well-regarded Early Learning Centre in Delacombe, Victoria, to recruit a dedicated and inspiring Early Childhood Leader for a permanent, full-time role.

This is an opportunity to lead with purpose in a purpose-built centre offering exceptional care for children aged 6 weeks through to school age. Collaboration is at the heart of this role-you'll partner closely with a national network of leaders to shape engaging programs and champion quality outcomes.

We welcome applications from experienced Centre Managers seeking their next challenge, as well as exceptional Assistant Directors or 2ICs who are ready to step confidently into a senior leadership role.

If you're committed to building strong teams, fostering a positive culture, and making a lasting difference in the lives of children and families, we'd love to connect with you.

Key duties:

• Inspire, guide, and empower educators through strong leadership, coaching, and mentoring to build a collaborative and high-performing team
• Lead the centre with integrity, ensuring alignment with the National Quality Framework (NQF), National Quality Standards (NQS), Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), and Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF)
• Champion the design, delivery, and evaluation of inclusive, child-led learning programs that support every child's growth, wellbeing, and curiosity
• Build authentic, respectful relationships with children, families, staff, and the broader community, creating a welcoming and connected environment
• Oversee all aspects of centre management, including enrolments, rostering, budgeting, and resource allocation, to ensure smooth and efficient operations
• Lead quality improvement and reflective practice initiatives, embedding a culture of continuous growth and innovation
• Ensure adherence to all legislative and regulatory standards, including Child Safe Standards and Occupational Health & Safety requirements
• Nurture the professional development of your team through mentoring, training, and regular performance conversations
• Act as a trusted point of contact for families-listening, supporting, and strengthening their connection with the centre community
• Represent the service with confidence during external audits, assessments, and regulatory visits
• Live and promote the centre's vision, values, and philosophy in every aspect of leadership and decision-making

Required Qualifications & Attributes

• Diploma, Graduate Diploma, or Degree in Early Childhood Education (ACECQA approved)
• In-depth knowledge of the EYLF and National Quality Standards (NQS)
• Strong understanding of compliance, regulations, and Child Safe Standards applicable to Victorian early childhood services
• High level of written and verbal communication skills
• Strong computer and documentation skills
• Current Working with Children Check or VIT
• Approved First Aid Certificate including Asthma, CPR and Anaphylaxis training
• Current legal working rights in Australia

Skills & Experience:

• Proven leadership experience working in an Australian-based Early Learning setting as a Director, Manager, 2ic or Assistant Director
• Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor and inspire a diverse team of educators and support staff
• Excellent organisational, time management, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong financial and operational management capabilities, including budgeting, staffing, and resource allocation
• Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills to build strong relationships with children, families, staff, and external stakeholders
• Commitment to continuous improvement, reflective practice, and ongoing professional development
• Ability to build meaningful relationships with children, colleagues, and families

Why work with Tradewind?

Tradewind Australia is a specialist, education recruitment agency and is the preferred supplier of Educators for many schools and Early Learning Centres across Australia. We have a strong reputation of providing high calibre Educators with fantastic contract and casual opportunities and helping to pursue a rewarding career. Our aim is to cultivate an excellent ongoing relationship with you throughout your growing career.

How to apply:

To apply, follow the link provided or apply on our website

Alternatively, email your resume to

For any queries regarding the position or application process, contact the Early Years Team on

Commitment to Child Safety and Equal Opportunity

Tradewind Australia is committed to the safety, wellbeing, and inclusion of all children. Our Child Protection Policy and Code of Conduct ensure a safe environment for all children, including those with a disability, from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

All applicants will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, including a Working with Children Check, and identity verification. We encourage candidates to highlight any experience working with diverse children and communities.

TRADEWIND AUSTRALIA IS PROUD TO BE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYER.

We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disability, and those with lived experience.