Center Director

Tradewind Australia is recruiting for an experienced Centre Director for an “Exceeding” Early Learning Centre, based in Wyndham Vale to start ASAP.

About the Role:

• Lead a strong team within a large, purpose-built centre.
• Collaborate with the Educational Leader and Curriculum Leader.
• Work with the off-floor Assistant Director/2IC to enhance the learning program and uphold the centre’s reputation for quality practice.
• Permanent, ongoing position across Monday - Friday.

Responsibilities:

• Lead, support, and mentor educators and staff to cultivate a collaborative, positive, and high-performing team culture.
• Ensure the centre operates in full compliance with the National Quality Framework (NQF), National Quality Standards (NQS), Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), and Victorian Early Years Learning and Development Framework (VEYLDF).
• Oversee the planning, delivery, and evaluation of engaging and inclusive educational programs that promote each child’s development and wellbeing.
• Foster strong, respectful partnerships with children, families, team members, and the wider community.
• Manage daily centre operations, including enrolments, staffing, rosters, budgeting, and resource allocation.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, including quality assurance, centre self-assessments, and reflective practices.
• Maintain compliance with all legislative, regulatory, and policy requirements, including Child Safe Standards and Occupational Health & Safety guidelines.
• Support ongoing professional growth through mentoring, training opportunities, and regular performance reviews.
• Act as the central point of contact for families—responding to enquiries, addressing concerns, and promoting engagement in the centre’s community.
• Represent the service during external assessments, audits, and regulatory visits.
• Champion the centre’s vision, values, and philosophy across all aspects of leadership and daily operations.

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 Centre Director experience working in an Australian-based Early Learning setting as a Director or Manager.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor and inspire a diverse team of educators and support staff, with an empathetic approach to communication and leadership.
• 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 for providing high calibre Educators with excellent contract and casual opportunities and helping to pursue a rewarding career. Our aim is to cultivate an 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 earlyyears@twrecruitment.com.au. For any queries regarding the position or application process, contact the Early Years Team on 03 9110 0090.

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.