Job Title: Nursery Area ManagerLocation: Essex / East London (multi-site role – all locations within 30 minutes of each other)Basic Salary: £45,000 - £50,000 per annum + Bonus includedJob Type: Full-timeSchedule: Monday to Friday, with occasional flexibility for site visits and eventsPriority Recruitment are proud to represent this exciting opportunity for an experienced Operations Manager to join a growing group of nurseries across the Essex and East London area.This role is perfect for someone who thrives on leading teams, improving standards, and shaping high-quality early years provision across multiple sites. You’ll oversee Nursery Managers, support staff development, and ensure each setting runs smoothly, safely, and in line with EYFS and Ofsted standards.Please note: A Level 5 qualification in Childcare (such as the NCFE CACHE Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Children and Young People’s Services) is essential for this role.Important Note – Initial Site Responsibility:To ensure a smooth transition into the role and a deep understanding of the group’s values and operations, the successful candidate will initially be based at the clients Orpington nursery for the first 3-6 months, taking on the responsibilities of Nursery Manager. This hands-on phase is designed to embed you within the organisation before stepping fully into the Area Manager position overseeing the wider Essex and East London settings.What’s in it for you:

• Competitive salary between £45,000 and £50,000 depending on experience and qualifications
• A rewarding leadership role where you can drive real impact across several sites
• Support from a forward-thinking and child-focused senior leadership team
• A strong benefits package, including:
  • Childcare discounts
  • Bereavement leave
  • Health & wellbeing programme
  • Company events and regular team incentives
  • On-site parking at all locations

More about the role:

• Lead the operational delivery across multiple nursery settings, ensuring consistently high standards
• Line manage and mentor Nursery Managers – supporting their leadership and professional development
• Oversee all aspects of safeguarding, EYFS curriculum delivery, health & safety, and Ofsted compliance
• Use data and observations to identify areas for improvement and implement positive change
• Work closely with HR and recruitment to maintain strong, well-supported teams at each nursery
• Monitor occupancy, staffing levels, and budgets – ensuring each setting remains sustainable and efficient
• Champion a culture of care, collaboration, and quality across all teams
• Build strong working relationships with families, local authorities, and external partners
• Support with staff training and CPD initiatives to continually raise the bar across the group

Successful Applicant:

• Holds a Level 5 qualification in Childcare or Early Years Leadership – e.g. NCFE CACHE Level 5 Diploma (essential)
• Must pass an enhanced DBS check
• Experienced in managing or supporting multiple early years settings
• Strong knowledge of EYFS, Ofsted inspection frameworks, and safeguarding procedures
• A confident leader – able to coach, motivate, and hold Nursery Managers to account
• Organised and proactive, with great attention to detail
• A clear communicator who builds strong rapport with families, staff, and stakeholders
• Driven to create safe, nurturing, and stimulating spaces where children can thrive
• Commercially minded – confident managing budgets, occupancy, and resources
• Holds a full driving licence and is comfortable travelling between sites

About Priority RecruitmentWe’ve been matching great people with great places since 2012. With a 4.9/5 Google rating, our team are known for their honest, people-first approach. Whether you’re stepping up or looking for your next leadership challenge, we’ll support you every step of the way.Sound like the right fit? Apply now – we’d love to hear from you!