Nursery Area Manager

Job Title: Nursery Area Manager
Location: Essex / East London (multi-site role – all locations within 30 minutes of each other)
Basic Salary: £45,000 - £50,000 per annum + Bonus included
Job Type: Full-time
Schedule: Monday to Friday, with occasional flexibility for site visits and events

Priority Recruitment are proud to represent this exciting opportunity for an experienced Operations Manager to join a growing group of nurseries across the Essex and East London area.

This role is perfect for someone who thrives on leading teams, improving standards, and shaping high-quality early years provision across multiple sites. You’ll oversee Nursery Managers, support staff development, and ensure each setting runs smoothly, safely, and in line with EYFS and Ofsted standards.

Please note: A Level 5 qualification in Childcare (such as the NCFE CACHE Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Children and Young People’s Services) is essential for this role.

Important Note – Initial Site Responsibility:
To ensure a smooth transition into the role and a deep understanding of the group’s values and operations, the successful candidate will initially be based at the clients Orpington nursery for the first 3-6 months, taking on the responsibilities of Nursery Manager. This hands-on phase is designed to embed you within the organisation before stepping fully into the Area Manager position overseeing the wider Essex and East London settings.

What’s in it for you:

• Competitive salary between £45,000 and £50,000 depending on experience and qualifications
• A rewarding leadership role where you can drive real impact across several sites
• Support from a forward-thinking and child-focused senior leadership team
• A strong benefits package, including:
  • Childcare discounts
  • Bereavement leave
  • Health & wellbeing programme
  • Company events and regular team incentives
  • On-site parking at all locations

More about the role:

• Lead the operational delivery across multiple nursery settings, ensuring consistently high standards
• Line manage and mentor Nursery Managers – supporting their leadership and professional development
• Oversee all aspects of safeguarding, EYFS curriculum delivery, health & safety, and Ofsted compliance
• Use data and observations to identify areas for improvement and implement positive change
• Work closely with HR and recruitment to maintain strong, well-supported teams at each nursery
• Monitor occupancy, staffing levels, and budgets – ensuring each setting remains sustainable and efficient
• Champion a culture of care, collaboration, and quality across all teams
• Build strong working relationships with families, local authorities, and external partners
• Support with staff training and CPD initiatives to continually raise the bar across the group

Successful Applicant:

• Holds a Level 5 qualification in Childcare or Early Years Leadership – e.g. NCFE CACHE Level 5 Diploma (essential)
• Must pass an enhanced DBS check
• Experienced in managing or supporting multiple early years settings
• Strong knowledge of EYFS, Ofsted inspection frameworks, and safeguarding procedures
• A confident leader – able to coach, motivate, and hold Nursery Managers to account
• Organised and proactive, with great attention to detail
• A clear communicator who builds strong rapport with families, staff, and stakeholders
• Driven to create safe, nurturing, and stimulating spaces where children can thrive
• Commercially minded – confident managing budgets, occupancy, and resources
• Holds a full driving licence and is comfortable travelling between sites

About Priority Recruitment
We’ve been matching great people with great places since 2012. With a 4.9/5 Google rating, our team are known for their honest, people-first approach.

Whether you’re stepping up or looking for your next leadership challenge, we’ll support you every step of the way.

Sound like the right fit? Apply now – we’d love to hear from you!