Join Laochra Academy, a growing School Aged Childcare Team in Cavan
We are looking for an experienced leader to join Laochra Academy as our Operations Manager. This role is ideal for someone who loves developing others, building high-performing teams and creating environments where children, families and staff can thrive.
The Role
This is a hands-on leadership role where you'll spend your time coaching Coordinators, supporting teams, visiting services, solving problems, strengthening relationships with schools and parents, and ensuring every Laochra Academy service delivers exceptional care.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, coach and develop a team of seven Coordinators, creating a culture of accountability, support and continuous improvement.
- Support workforce planning by overseeing staffing levels, approving annual leave, reviewing rotas and ensuring services are appropriately resourced.
- Provide coaching, mentoring and regular one-to-one support to Coordinators to help them grow as confident leaders.
- Conduct regular school visits and performance reviews
- Ensure full compliance with Tusla, Children First, and childcare regulations
- Monitor quality standards, safeguarding practices, and operational procedures
- Support recruitment, onboarding, retention, and workforce planning
- Drive staff engagement and leadership development initiatives
- Support services in delivering high-quality child-centred activities
- Ensure a positive parent experience and timely resolution of concerns
- Identify opportunities to improve performance, quality, and growth across the region
The kind of Leader we’re looking for:
Above all, we're looking for someone who leads with kindness, remains calm under pressure, takes ownership, and genuinely enjoys helping others succeed. Someone who builds trust, develops people, and creates positive, supportive environments where children, families and staff can thrive.
What We're Looking For
- Proven experience in managing a large team
- Proven experience in a primary school / working with school aged children
- Excellent people management and coaching skills
- Strong knowledge of Tusla regulations (preferred, not essential)
- Strong organisational, communication, and problem-solving abilities
- A proactive, hands-on approach with the ability to lead by example
- Relevant qualification in Early Years, Primary Education (or equivalent)
- A full clean drivers license and own transport is essential
What's on Offer?
- Senior leadership role within a growing organisation
- Competitive salary and bonus potential
- Opportunity to shape standards across multiple services
- Ongoing professional development and training
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Employee Referral Programme
- 25 days annual leave (post-probation) + 10 public holidays
- Supportive and ambitious leadership team with genuine career progression opportunities
Apply Today
If you're an experienced leader with a passion for quality childcare, team development, and operational excellence, we'd love to hear from you.
Join a growing organisation, lead high-performing teams, and make a lasting impact on children's lives while taking the next step in your leadership career.
Pay: €45,000.00-€55,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Additional leave
- Bike to work scheme
- Employee assistance program
- Employee discount
- Free or subsidised travel
- On-site parking
- Sick pay
Education:
- Advanced/Higher Certificate (required)
Experience:
- Leadership: 6 years (required)
Licence/Certification:
- driving licence (required)
Work Location: In person
