Job Title: Area Manager – Early Years & Wraparound Care Reports to: Director Location: Warrington & St Helens Responsible for: Nursery Managers, Club Managers, and Setting Staff across assigned sites Job Purpose The Area Manager is responsible for the operational leadership, quality assurance, and performance management of multiple Early Years and Wraparound childcare settings. The role ensures all settings deliver outstanding care and education, meet regulatory standards, and operate efficiently while supporting managers and staff to achieve the highest standards of practice. Key Responsibilities Operational Leadership * Provide leadership and strategic oversight to multiple childcare settings within the area. * Support Nursery and Club Managers to deliver high-quality early years education and wraparound care. * Monitor operational performance, occupancy levels, and financial targets across settings. * Implement company policies, procedures, and best practice across all sites. Quality & Compliance * Ensure all settings meet and maintain compliance with Ofsted regulations and Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) standards. * Conduct regular quality assurance visits and audits. * Support settings in preparing for inspections and improvement plans. * Monitor safeguarding practices and ensure child protection procedures are followed. Staff Management & Development * Recruit, support, and develop Nursery Managers and Club Managers. * Conduct performance reviews, supervision meetings, and coaching sessions. * Identify training needs and support staff development. * Promote a positive culture of teamwork, inclusion, and continuous improvement. Support the managers to develop their team Business & Financial Performance * Monitor budgets, staffing ratios, and occupancy levels across settings. * Support managers in achieving financial targets and sustainability. * Analyse performance data and implement improvement strategies. Parent & Community Engagement * Maintain strong relationships with parents, schools, and local communities. * Address concerns or complaints in a professional and timely manner. * Promote the organisation and support marketing initiatives to increase occupancy. Health, Safety & Safeguarding * Ensure all settings operate in line with health and safety regulations. * Oversee risk assessments and safe practice procedures. * Maintain a strong safeguarding culture across all settings. Person Specification Essential * Level 3 or above qualification in Early Years / Childcare. * Significant leadership experience in Early Years settings. * Strong knowledge of EYFS framework and safeguarding requirements. * Experience managing or supporting multiple childcare settings. * Excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills. * Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel between sites. Desirable * Level 5 or higher qualification in Early Years, Childcare, or Leadership. * Experience managing wraparound care provision (breakfast/after-school clubs). * Experience supporting settings through Ofsted inspections. Key Skills * Strategic leadership * Staff mentoring and development * Quality improvement * Financial and operational management * Problem solving and decision making * Relationship building Working Conditions * Travel between settings is required. * Occasional evening or weekend work may be required for meetings, events, or inspections.