Service Manager

Job PurposeTo lead and manage the early years setting in accordance with all relevant legislation and national quality frameworks, including the Child Care Act 1991 (Early Years Services) Regulations 2016, Aistear, and Síolta. The Manager holds overall responsibility for ensuring the health, safety, and wellbeing of children, supporting high standards of care and education, supervising staff, and fostering a warm, welcoming, and professional environment. As the most senior person on site, the Manager plays a vital role in setting the ethos, tone, and culture of the service. They lead by example, cultivating an atmosphere where children feel safe, nurtured and curious; where staff feel respected, supported and motivated; and where families feel welcomed, heard and valued. Roles and Responsibilities This is a team management role with plenty of support from an experienced leadership team, ensuring you never feel alone. Key Responsibilities Lead and manage the day-to-day operations of the service, ensuring compliance with all Tusla requirements and national standards as well as company policies and procedures Foster a positive, inclusive and child-led learning environment, aligned with Aistear and Síolta and Montessori frameworks. Support and oversee curriculum planning, observations and documentation of children's learning and development. Supervise, support, and evaluate staff performance through regular one-to-ones, mentoring, and training. Manage rosters, leave, and staffing levels to ensure regulatory ratios are always maintained. Serve as the Designated Liaison Person (DLP) for child protection and ensure full adherence to Children First guidelines. Oversee all inspections and compliance matters, including Tusla, Pobal, and Department of Education requirements. Build strong, trust-based relationships with parents and guardians; maintain open, respectful communication at all times. Manage budgets, procurement, and reporting requirements for schemes such as ECCE and NCS. Promote a culture of reflective practice, continuous quality improvement, and collaborative teamworking. Working Conditions The Manager is based on-site and is expected to be available during the core operational hours of the service, Monday to Friday. This is a hands-on leadership role which includes time in the rooms supporting practice, mentoring staff, and responding to operational needs. The role may occasionally require flexibility outside of regular hours, for example to accommodate inspections, training, or staff meetings. The Manager is expected to lead with professionalism, compassion, and calm particularly during challenging situations or times of change. The position involves administrative responsibilities including compliance documentation, financial oversight, and engagement with external agencies. Ongoing CPD is strongly encouraged, and opportunities for leadership development and sector training will be supported. The Service Manager is expected to work closely and collaboratively with the Deputy Service Manager both must be aligned in their knowledge, decision-making, and approach. The Service Manager must ensure the Deputy is fully informed and included in all relevant aspects of the services operations. They are expected to cover for one another as needed, maintain consistent standards, and uphold complete confidentiality in all matters relating to staff, children, and families. The Service Manager must keep the Directors fully informed of all key operational matters, including planned or unplanned absences, inspection notifications or outcomes, staffing changes, and any significant decisions affecting the running of the service. The Service Manager and Deputy Manager should work opposing shifts and be the primary individuals covering for each other during absences. The Assistant Manager should be fully informed and included in leadership communications and provide additional support to ensure consistency, continuity, and leadership presence throughout the operational day. The successful candidate must have Essential Requirements Minimum Level 7 qualification in Early Childhood Care and Education (or equivalent). At least 3 years experience in a leadership role in an early years setting. Strong knowledge of Irish early years regulations, Aistear & Síolta and Montessori. Excellent organisational, leadership and interpersonal skills. Garda vetting and up-to-date First Aid, Manual Handling, and Children First training. Hours 30 to 40 hours per week Salary Negotiable Job Location Shankill, D18 W2X2 Qualification Level Minimum QQI/Fetac Level 7