Early Years Operations Manager Job at Cheshire Full Time NEW

Operations Manager – North Region

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Operations Manager to oversee operations across multiple nursery settings within the North region. The successful candidate will be responsible for driving performance, supporting nursery teams, and ensuring consistent, high-quality service delivery across all sites. This is an exciting opportunity for a proactive and dynamic leader to play a key role in shaping regional success while fostering a positive, high-performing culture.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement operational strategies to achieve regional goals and performance targets.
• Lead, support, and coach Nursery Managers and their teams, providing clear guidance and constructive feedback.
• Monitor and analyse nursery performance, identifying trends and producing detailed reports for senior leadership.
• Ensure all settings remain fully compliant with EYFS requirements, safeguarding procedures, health and safety standards, and company policies.
• Build strong and professional relationships with parents, external agencies, suppliers, and key stakeholders.
• Oversee regional budgets, staffing levels, occupancy targets, and resource allocation to ensure operational efficiency.
• Support recruitment, retention, and succession planning across the region.
• Lead initiatives to improve quality, operational performance, customer experience, and team development.
• Coordinate training and professional development opportunities to strengthen leadership capability across nursery teams.
• Support nurseries in preparing for Ofsted inspections and maintaining high standards of care and education.

Skills & Experience

• Proven experience managing multiple sites or teams within the childcare, education, or early years sector.
• Strong leadership and people-management skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire teams.
• Excellent knowledge of EYFS, safeguarding, and regulatory requirements.
• Outstanding organisational and prioritisation abilities, with experience working in fast-paced environments.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the confidence to engage with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Analytical and commercially aware, with experience using data to support operational decision-making.
• Flexible, proactive, and able to work independently as well as collaboratively.
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel across the North region.

What We Offer

• Paycare Medical Cover – contributions towards dental and optical care, same-day GP appointments, and lifestyle assessments.
• 75% childcare discount to support working families.
• MyGym / MyActive discounts – save up to 25% on gym memberships, fitness clothing, and equipment.
• Paycare Perks – discounts at over 300 high street retailers including Sainsbury’s, John Lewis, H&M, Boots, and New Look.
• Recommend a Friend Scheme – earn up to £1,500 for successful referrals.
• Ongoing training and professional development through sector-leading programmes.
• Up to 33 days holiday including bank holidays.
• Employer pension contributions.
• Car allowance and business mileage contribution.

Safeguarding Commitment

At Bright Stars, we are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and we expect all staff to share this commitment.

The successful applicant will be required to undergo comprehensive suitability checks, including:

• Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check
• Appropriate employment references
• Verification of qualifications
• Right to work checks
• Completion of all safer recruitment requirements

All appointments are subject to satisfactory clearance of these checks in line with our Safeguarding Policy.