Job Description

Operations Manager (Maternity Cover)

Location

: Across all Creative Explorers nursery sites

Reports to

: General Manager

Purpose of the Role

To ensure the smooth, safe, and efficient operational running of all Creative Explorers nursery sites during the maternity leave period. This role is key to maintaining high standards across multiple locations, supporting the deputy managers, coordinating essential services, and handling all day-to-day operational matters with a calm, can-do approach.

Key Areas of Responsibility1. Line Management and Leadership

Weekly line management of Deputy Managers (DMs), including: One-to-one meetings Weekly team operations meetings Performance reviews and developmental feedback Act as a supportive point of contact for site leadership teams

2. Site Management & Coordination

Conduct bi-monthly (every two months) operational site audits across all locations Oversee site maintenance and ensure operational readiness, including cleanliness, contractor engagement (e.g. BT, Veolia), and general upkeep Manage waste services, IT/internet issues, and phone lines in partnership with external providers Ensure sites are fully stocked with essential resources (e.g. paper towels, COSHH items), and coordinate shared equipment transfers

3. Health & Safety Compliance

Lead and monitor site safety checks, including fire alarm testing, fire extinguishers, PAT testing, and accident reporting Maintain compliance with all internal safety protocols and external regulations Oversee food safety compliance in collaboration with site chefs and cleaners

4. Budget Oversight & Procurement

Approve and monitor operational spending, in line with site needs Coordinate purchasing of nursery consumables and cleaning products Liaise with DMs and chefs regarding stock levels, ordering, and inventory management

5. Staff and Contractor Coordination

Oversee chefs and cleaners across all sites (non-line management, coordination only) Approve rota-related resourcing needs and manage ad hoc logistics as required Support with occasional last-minute cover or site-based errands (e.g. transferring lunch or resources)

6. Business Calendar & Event Coordination

Maintain and update the organisation's 18-month rolling business calendar, ensuring visibility and planning of key events and operational deadlines Manage the 'info@' shared calendar inbox, or delegate appropriately Oversee company-wide and site-based showcase events, supporting DMs with planning and delivery

7. Ad Hoc Operations Support

Address on-the-ground needs as they arise (e.g. broken resources, stock collection, equipment transfers) Be a proactive presence resolving gaps in operational coverage that may otherwise fall between roles Model a servant-leadership approach, stepping in wherever needed to uphold a culture of support

Skills and Experience

Prior operational or multi-site management experience, ideally in education or early years settings Strong working knowledge of health & safety requirements in nurseries Excellent organisational, communication and problem-solving skills Comfortable with fast-paced, hands-on work and managing shifting priorities Experience with digital tools including Microsoft Office and Famly (preferred) Ability to coordinate and influence a range of stakeholders (staff, contractors, suppliers)

Attributes We're Looking For

Calm, collected, and solutions-focused under pressure A practical doer with a strong sense of accountability Someone who can support and empower others while rolling up their sleeves Aligned with the Creative Explorers ethos: curious, compassionate, expressive, and resilient

Contract Details

Fixed-term maternity cover (exact dates to be confirmed) 4 days per week Based across all Creative Explorers sites
I think the following responsibilities we could find a new home for within the leadership and management teams (to be discussed).

Famly Admin (Under Review)

Current responsibilities include: Staff and child profile setup Permissions and calendar coordination These duties may be reassigned; role holder may support during transition or handover period
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 40,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company events Company pension Employee discount
Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person

Expected start date: 01/08/2025