This position is responsible for ensuring strong financial sustainability, compliance, and growth of designated areas, through the provision of effective and professional operational leadership. As an Operation Manager you will assist the State Manager with additional leadership responsibilities across the state, and you will have a team of Area Managers reporting to you with clear responsibilities under six key result areas – quality, compliance, occupancy, debt, rostering, and people development.

 The role:

• Provide strategic leadership by guiding Area Managers, driving cultural alignment with AEG’s mission, values, and organisational goals.
• Ensure full compliance with policies, regulations, and child safety standards; investigate incidents and embed continuous improvement.
• Monitor financial performance using dashboards and P&L data; manage budgets, payments, and implement cost-saving strategies.
• Drive occupancy and revenue growth through effective waitlist and tour conversion strategies, debt control, and Wages to Revenue (WTR) management.
• Recruit, develop, and retain high-performing teams; lead performance appraisals, training, and partner with People & Culture to support workforce stability.

About you:

• Proven experience in multi-site operational leadership within early childhood education.
• Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (or equivalent) is essential.
• Strong budgeting, planning, and program implementation skills with excellent time management and attention to detail.
• Current Working with Children Check (or ability to obtain) and a valid Driver's Licence.
• Positive, proactive attitude with strong team collaboration and leadership capabilities.

Benefits: 

• Attractive salary package, bonus scheme and car allowance
• Flexible working arrangement
• Fitness and Lifestyle Group memberships
• A professional culture and supportive work environment
• Career advancement opportunities with professional development

Who we are:

We offer a professional yet fun environment when interacting with our families, communities, and employees, through living our Affinity Values – Creating Shining Stars, Deliver Outstanding Professionalism, Being Completely Connected, Going Above and Beyond, Living the Team Spirit and Having Serious Fun!

Permanent Full-time position, Monday to Friday, 38 hours per week, based in Melbourne.

Feel positive. Feel proud. Make new friends. IT’S YOUR TIME TO SHINE - Apply now!

At Affinity, we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where every individual is treated with respect and dignity. We believe that diversity enhances our ability to serve the children, families, and communities we support. Our Safety Commitment prioritises the safety, rights, and wellbeing of children, as well as the rights and responsibilities of our employees and their families.