Job Description

Company Overview

Old Dairy Farm Nursery is a tranquil outdoor-focused nursery in Petersfield, dedicated to inspiring children through a natural, multisensory environment that promotes exploration, development, and self-expression. We embrace the Reggio Emilia approach, fostering curiosity and long-term projects in a nurturing setting surrounded by nature.

Summary

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Nursery Manager to lead our team at Old Dairy Farm Nursery in Petersfield. This pivotal role involves overseeing daily operations, supporting staff and children, and maintaining our commitment to outdoor learning and holistic development.

Early Years - Business Manager

(Non-room based / Operational & Compliance Lead)

Job Purpose

To lead and manage all non-child-facing areas of the nursery, ensuring the smooth, compliant and financially sustainable operation of the setting. The Business Manager supports the Nursery Director with strategic planning, oversees administrative and financial processes, and ensures all regulatory requirements, audits and documentation are robust and up to date.

Key Responsibilities

Operational & Compliance

Oversee and maintain all compliance systems including safer recruitment, DBS checks, training logs, staff files, risk assessments and health & safety documentation. Conduct monthly full-setting audits (safeguarding, health & safety, EYFS compliance). Ensure policies are up to date and disseminated to staff. Lead on Ofsted preparation, documentation, follow-up actions and data collection. Maintain accurate records for accidents, incidents, medication and safeguarding.

Finance & Administration

Manage nursery invoicing, funding paperwork, parent accounts and outstanding debt processes. Monitor budgets, expenditure and forecasting. Oversee payroll information, timesheets, overtime and absence reporting. Work with the Director on fee reviews, funded hours offers and financial strategy.

HR & Recruitment

Oversee safer recruitment checks and onboarding. Maintain staff rotas in partnership with the Nursery Manager to ensure ratio compliance. Monitor staff training requirements, CPD, performance meetings and supervision logs. Support with investigations, conduct meetings and structured staff communications.

Parent & Community Liaison

Respond to parent enquiries in a timely, professional manner. Support the Director with newsletters, website updates, social media and event coordination. Ensure professional presentation of the nursery at all times (noticeboards, signage, policies).

Leadership

Member of the senior leadership team (SLT). Deputise for the Nursery Director as required (non-room based). Provide clear leadership in relation to compliance, systems and administrative excellence.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 40,000.00-42,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Discounted or free food Free parking On-site parking
Work Location: In person