Children's Service Manager

Children’s Service Manager – Nursery Provision

Location: Tower Hamlets, East London

Salary: £44,617.76 per annum

Contract: Full-Time, Temporary (can become a permanent position for the right candidate)

Sector: Early Years & Children’s Services

Start date: ASAP

About this role

This is an exciting opportunity to join an inclusive nursery operating across East London, with a strong reputation for delivering high-quality early years education and family support. With two well-established settings, one in Bow and one in Hackney (rated “Good” by Ofsted), the organisation is committed to safeguarding excellence and community engagement.

As a Children’s Service Manager, you will lead the strategic and operational delivery of nursery services across both sites. You will be based daily at the Bow nursery, working opposite the Deputy Manager on a rota of 8:00–17:00 or 9:00–18:00, ensuring a consistent leadership presence.

In addition to your responsibilities at the Bow nursery, you will have oversight of the Hackney nursery, providing supervision and support to its Deputy Manager. Your role will focus on driving quality improvement, staff development, safeguarding, and curriculum excellence across both settings.

Key responsibilities

Lead and manage nursery operations across Bow and Hackney Ensure compliance with EYFS, Ofsted, and safeguarding frameworks Develop and implement strategic plans for service improvement Provide direct supervision and mentoring to Deputy Managers Monitor quality of teaching, learning, and child development outcomes Build strong relationships with families, local authorities, and external agencies Manage staffing, budgets, and performance across both settings Champion inclusive practice and early intervention strategies  

What you'll need to succeed

* Level 3 or above in Childcare/Early Years Education (Level 5+ preferred)

* Extensive leadership experience in nursery or children’s services management Proven ability to create and execute detailed operational and strategic plans

* Strong understanding of early years pedagogy, safeguarding, and SEND

* Excellent communication and team-building skills

* Commitment to being on-site daily, working opposite the Deputy Manager

* Ability to provide cross-site oversight and maintain consistent service standards  

What you'll get in return

Competitive salary and performance-based incentives 50% childcare discount across settings Access to CPD, leadership training, and career progression pathways Supportive and collaborative working culture Opportunity to shape the future of early years services in Tower Hamlets  

What you need to do now

If you're ready to lead with purpose and make a lasting impact in early years education, apply today.

Not quite the right fit? Hays offers a referral bonus: recommend a candidate and receive a £350 high street voucher when they secure a role through us