KAIARATAKI | EDUCATION MANAGER


This is an exceptional opportunity to apply your early childhood education expertise and  leadership capability across multiple services and sites.

  • Competitive salary with six weeks annual leave
  • A high level of autonomy on a day-to-day basis
  • Join a competent supportive senior management team

Mō Tātou | About Us

Waikato Kindergarten Association | Early Education Waikato is a highly regarded provider of quality early childhood education across the Waikato region. We proudly own and operate 29 Kindergartens, 7 Early Education Centres, and a Home-Based service, with a workforce of more than 500 employees, we are one of the region’s largest employers. As a charitable trust and a subsidiary company, we are committed to the long-term sustainability and future growth of our organisation.

Mō te Tūranga | About the Role

This is a coveted role with excellent conditions and is a rare opportunity to join a highly successful organisation and an experienced senior management team. We are seeking a dynamic leader responsible for providing professional leadership, operational management, and educational guidance across a defined portfolio.

In this role,  you will actively embed our strategic plan, contribute to organisational goals, develop staff and help shape the future of quality early childhood education.

Ngā Haepapa Matua | Key Responsibilities

  • Provide strong leadership and guidance to a team of Managers/Head Teachers to ensure high-quality education and nurturing environments.
  • Lead, mentor and support Managers/Head Teachers to ensure each service exceeds regulatory and operational standards. 
  • Take responsibility for embedding the organisations vision, goals, expectations and focus on continuous improvement.
  • Build and sustain positive relationships across teams and communities.
  • Support and promote professional development and training initiatives for staff.
  • Empower teams and confidently address challenges, including conflict resolution.
  • Maximise rolls and ensure efficient site operations.
  • Ensure the safety and well-being of tamariki through consistent adherence to health and safety policies and procedures.
  • Maintain full compliance with legislation, education standards and regulatory requirements.

Hei Angitu Koe i Tēnei Tūranga, Me | To Be Successful in This Role, You Will;


  • Be commercially astute, with a good understanding of business strategy, operational management and financial processes.
  • Bring highly developed organisational, analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Hold an Early Childhood Qualification with current NZ Teacher Registration and Certification.
  • Demonstrate skills in te reo Māori, along with the ability to lead and implement bi-cultural practice across multiple sites.
  • Have exceptional communication and interpersonal skills and have the ability to build and sustain collaborative relationships.
  • Bring a proven track record of mentoring, coaching, supporting and developing Managers, Head Teachers and teams.

This role is permanent, full-time position based at our busy Office in Hamilton, where you’ll join dedicated, experienced and supportive team.

Apply now

Permanent Full Time

Job no: LPAJ50284

Location: EEW Head Office

Closing Date: Wednesday, 14 January 2026