At Thrive Early Learning Centres, we believe great outcomes start with great leaders. We're looking for a passionate Area Manager who thrives on building relationships, developing people and driving performance across a portfolio of Centres.

This is an opportunity to join a growing, family-owned organisation that is committed to innovation, quality and creating exceptional experiences for children, families and teams.

What You'll Do

As an Area Manager, you'll partner with Centre Leaders to help them achieve their full potential. You'll be a coach, mentor and trusted advisor—supporting your Centres to deliver outstanding quality, strong occupancy, engaged teams and sustainable business outcomes.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading and developing Centre Leaders to build high-performing teams

• Driving performance across quality, occupancy, workforce management and family satisfaction

• Supporting Centres through Assessment & Rating, compliance and continuous improvement initiatives

• Identifying opportunities, solving problems and implementing practical solutions

• Using data and insights to analyse trends, make informed decisions and improve performance

• Supporting growth initiatives, centre integrations and business improvement projects

• Building strong relationships with families, communities and key stakeholders

Why Thrive?

• Join a collaborative, high-energy and supportive leadership team

• Family-owned organisation with ambitious growth plans

• Innovative learning programs, including our world-first Wonderworld immersive experience

• Opportunities to contribute to strategic projects and organisational improvement initiatives

• Professional development and career growth pathways

• Competitive salary package and birthday leave

• A culture where we work hard, support each other and enjoy a laugh along the way

About You

You'll be a strong relationship builder who can influence, inspire and bring people together around a common goal.

You'll also bring:

• Experience in an Area Manager or senior Centre Leadership role within ECEC

• A genuine passion for developing leaders and building capability

• Strong commercial acumen and an ability to analyse data and drive performance

• A proactive, solutions-focused approach to challenges

• A growth mindset and enthusiasm for continuous improvement and innovation

• Deep knowledge of the NQF, NQS, EYLF and regulatory requirements

• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills

This role supports Centres across our network and requires regular travel throughout metropolitan Sydney, occasional regional NSW travel and periodic visits to Victoria. Flexibility and a willingness to travel are essential.

If you're looking for a role where you can influence outcomes, develop leaders and help shape the future of early learning, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply now and join Thrive's leadership journey.