Nursery Manager

Job Specification: Nursery Manager

Location: Wales, Pembroke Dock

Type: Full-Time

Salary: £35k per annum

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and qualified Nursery Manager to lead the operations of a small but thriving childcare nursery. As the owner’s designated leader, you will have full responsibility for the day-to-day management, ensuring high-quality childcare and a smooth-running business.

This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious manager who can combine strong leadership skills with commercial awareness, maintaining compliance with CIW (Care Inspectorate Wales) standards while creating an engaging, safe, and nurturing environment for children.

Key Responsibilities

1. Operational Management

• Oversee daily operations of the nursery, ensuring high standards of care, safety, and education.

• Manage staff rotas and ensure adherence to CIW staff-to-child ratios.

• Lead the team to achieve positive inspection results from CIW and other relevant authorities.

• Ensure compliance with safeguarding, health & safety, and all regulatory requirements.

2. Staff Leadership

• Recruit, induct, and manage nursery staff, ensuring they are suitably qualified and motivated.

• Conduct regular performance reviews and professional development sessions.

• Foster a positive working culture that reflects teamwork, accountability, and enthusiasm.

3. Financial and Commercial Oversight

• Manage budgets, control costs, and drive financial performance.

• Maximise occupancy and revenue through effective marketing and parent engagement.

• Oversee fee collection processes and government funding compliance.

4. Curriculum and Child Development

• Ensure the delivery of a high-quality curriculum that aligns with the Foundation Phase Framework in Wales.

• Monitor child development plans, maintaining accurate observations and progress records.

• Engage with parents and carers, providing regular updates and encouraging involvement.

5. Parental and Community Engagement

• Act as the main point of contact for parents, resolving queries professionally and building trust.

• Develop partnerships with local schools, authorities, and external agencies.

Qualifications and Experience

Essential:

• Level 5 qualification in Childcare, Early Years Education, or equivalent.

• Minimum 5 years of experience in a nursery management or senior leadership role.

• Proven experience of successful CIW inspections.

• Strong understanding of CIW regulations, safeguarding policies, and health & safety standards.

• Experience in managing budgets and commercial aspects of a nursery.

• Proficiency in using nursery management software and administrative systems.

Desirable:

• Paediatric First Aid and Food Hygiene certifications.

• Knowledge of Welsh Government funding schemes (e.g., 30 hours free childcare).

• Experience in marketing or increasing nursery enrollment.

Key Skills and Attributes

• Leadership: Confident in managing and motivating teams to achieve excellence.

• Commercial Acumen: Ability to balance childcare quality with strong financial management.

• Communication: Excellent verbal and written skills, able to build strong relationships with parents, staff, and authorities.

• Organisational Skills: Strong attention to detail and the ability to multitask under pressure.

• Child-Focused: Passionate about delivering exceptional childcare and fostering child development.

• Problem-Solving: Proactive and resourceful in addressing challenges.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary.

• Professional development opportunities.

• Autonomy to lead the nursery with minimal oversight from the owner.

• Supportive environment and the chance to shape the nursery’s future success