General Manager (Multi‑Site Early‑Years Settings)

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic General Manager to oversee the daily running and strategic development of our three early‑years settings. This is a hands‑on leadership role that requires strong operational management and a passion for early‑years education. You will be responsible for ensuring each setting runs smoothly, meets regulatory targets, provides outstanding care to children and families and attracts new families through effective marketing and community engagement. The role includes significant travel between settings and close collaboration with the director.

Key responsibilities

• Strategic and operational leadership – Develop plans to optimise productivity and high‑quality care across all settings, reviewing and improving operational effectiveness, and ensuring adherence to company policies and educational mission. Delegate responsibilities to setting managers and monitor their performance through regular visits and reporting.


• Recruitment and HR oversight – Oversee recruitment and deployment of staff across the settings, ensuring staffing models meet demand. Proactively recruit and maintain a pipeline of qualified early‑years practitioners; manage onboarding, training and performance reviews to build high‑performing teams.


• Marketing and business development – Act as brand ambassador; ensure each setting communicates the organisation’s values and maintains a welcoming environment. Lead local advertising campaigns and community outreach (social media, open days, partnerships) to attract and retain families. Review scheduled marketing content and help produce engaging, up‑to‑date materials.


• Financial management – Prepare and monitor budgets for each setting, controlling costs in line with agreed targets. Analyse occupancy and revenue data, adjust strategies to achieve financial goals and report regularly to the director.


• Quality assurance and compliance – Ensure compliance with Ofsted requirements and internal policies by conducting regular audits and inspections. Maintain quality of care and safeguarding standards; implement action plans in response to inspections and feedback.


• Customer and stakeholder relations – Build strong relationships with parents, carers and local stakeholders, ensuring excellent customer service and prompt communication. Represent the organisation at community events and handle PR opportunities and issues.


• Programme and curriculum oversight – Support setting managers in delivering inspiring age‑appropriate programmes aligned with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS); plan annual events and ensure consistency of educational approach across settings.


• Facilities and safety – Oversee maintenance of facilities and equipment, ensuring safe and stimulating environments for children. Manage health and safety procedures, risk assessments and emergency planning.


• Advertising and enrolment – Arrange marketing materials and campaigns to promote the settings; respond to enquiries about enrolment and fees, and lead tours for prospective parents.

• Qualifications: Level 3 or higher in Early Years/Childcare or relevant management qualification; paediatric first aid and safeguarding training.

• Degree in Early Childhood, Business or Management.


• Experience in multi‑site management, franchising or area management.


• HR or training qualifications; knowledge of digital marketing or graphic design to support promotional content.

• Competitive salary (£35k–£41k) with potential performance bonus.


• Company pension and generous holiday allowance.


• Professional development opportunities, including leadership training and CPD.


• Staff childcare discounts and access to wellbeing programmes.


• Supportive leadership team and opportunity to make a lasting impact on our growing organisation.

Please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and explaining why you are the right person to lead our settings. Short‑listed candidates will be invited to interview and asked to provide evidence of qualifications and references.

Our organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments are subject to satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS check.

• Experience: Proven success in managing nursery or early‑years settings across multiple sites (at least 3 years). Experience recruiting, training and leading teams.


• Knowledge: Strong working knowledge of EYFS, Ofsted standards and health \& safety requirements for childcare settings.


• Skills: Excellent communication, delegation and interpersonal skills; financial planning and budgeting ability; marketing awareness and ability to use social media to promote services; ability to travel between settings.


• Other: Full UK driving licence; DBS clearance and right to work in the UK.

Benefits:

• Employee discount


• Free parking

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