Job Description
Lead with integrity and earn trust in a Newcastle-based organisation.
Set the benchmark for ethical leadership and governance
Shape strategy and operations with your early education expertise
A rare opportunity for a values-driven executive to lead a large, mission-led early education & OOSH services organisation located in Newcastle, shaping strategy, driving operational excellence, and making a lasting impact on children, families, and communities.
About the opportunity – this role is based in Newcastle
Are you a strategic and operational leader driven by purpose and grounded in strong values? Do you thrive in complex environments where your leadership directly impacts children, families, and communities?
Our client is seeking a seasoned and values-led Director to lead a large early education and care organisation delivering services across early learning centres and out-of-school-hours care across 46 locations. With a strong reputation for quality, compassion, and innovation, the organisation is at a pivotal point in its growth and impact journey.
In this executive leadership role, you will work closely with the key Executives and leadership team and corporate head office, to set and deliver on the strategic direction of the organisation. You'll be responsible for ensuring operational excellence, financial sustainability, cultural alignment, and high-quality outcomes across all services.
Key responsibilities
Provide strategic and operational leadership across a large portfolio of early learning and OOSH services.
Ensure compliance with national standards, safeguarding frameworks, and funding regulations.
Develop and manage budgets in collaboration with finance, ensuring services remain sustainable and future-focused.
Foster a high-performing leadership team and positive, mission-aligned workplace culture.
Build trusted relationships with families, government agencies, and community partners.
Drive innovation and continuous improvement, while maintaining a clear focus on child safety and wellbeing.
Represent the organisation as a credible, values-driven leader within broader strategic forums.
This role is ideally suited to a senior executive with experience in early education. You’ll be recognised for your ability to lead through complexity with clarity, compassion, and integrity — someone who balances strong operational capability with a heart for service.
To be successful, you will have:
Tertiary qualifications in Early Education or a related discipline.
Proven executive leadership experience within a complex service environment.
Eligibility to be a Person of Management Control under ACECQA and meet Responsible Person requirements under NESA.
Strong knowledge of regulatory frameworks including ACECQA, NQF, WHS, and safeguarding legislation.
A proven leadership style that reflects integrity and purpose.
Current Working with Children Check and National Police Check (or willingness to obtain).
This is more than a leadership role — it's a chance to shape the future of early education and community engagement in a mission-led organisation making a meaningful impact every day.
How to apply
To learn more about key responsibilities, company culture and associated benefits of this opportunity, please contact Amanda MacGregor today on 02 4927 2005 or email amandam@peoplefusion.com.au or louisem@peoplefusion.com.au for a confidential discussion. Alternatively, click "Apply" to submit your covering letter and CV.
Applications Close date: Sunday 20th July
NOTE: Relocation package available for the ideal candidate
At peoplefusion we don’t just accept diversity and inclusion —we celebrate it! We strive to create an environment of equal opportunity regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, lifestyle, age, religion or physical ability, and welcome applications from people from all backgrounds. If you require any assistance with your application please don’t hesitate to contact us.
