Nursery Manager / Nursery DirectorLocation: UAEReporting To: Owner / Management
Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Nursery Manager / Nursery Director with a proven track record of establishing and operating nurseries from scratch in the UAE. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading the complete nursery setup process, including licensing, regulatory approvals, staffing, curriculum implementation, operational readiness, and ongoing management.
The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills, in-depth knowledge of UAE nursery regulations, and extensive experience in early childhood education. They will ensure the nursery operates to the highest standards of childcare, education, health, safety, and compliance while creating a nurturing and stimulating environment for children.
Key Responsibilities
- Nursery Establishment & Launch
- Lead the end-to-end setup and launch of the nursery from concept to operational readiness.
- Manage all licensing, approvals, and regulatory requirements with relevant UAE authorities.
- Develop and implement all nursery policies, procedures, safeguarding measures, and operational frameworks.
- Establish classroom environments, learning spaces, and educational resources in accordance with EYFS, Montessori, or equivalent standards.
- Coordinate procurement of furniture, equipment, educational materials, and operational resources.
- Develop organizational structures and staffing plans to support nursery operations.
- Ensure the nursery is fully prepared for inspections, audits, and official approvals before opening.
- Manage project timelines, budgets, and vendor relationships throughout the setup phase.
- Leadership & People Management
- Recruit, train, onboard, and retain qualified nursery staff in accordance with UAE regulations.
- Lead and supervise teachers, teaching assistants, administrative staff, and support personnel.
- Conduct performance evaluations and implement professional development plans.
- Foster a positive, collaborative, and professional working environment.
- Ensure all staff receive required training, including safeguarding, health and safety, First Aid, and CPR.Childcare & Educational Excellence
- Ensure the delivery of high-quality early childhood education programs.
- Oversee the implementation of EYFS, Montessori, or other approved educational frameworks.
- Create a safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate learning environment.
- Monitor children's progress and ensure accurate documentation and reporting.
- Support inclusive education practices and accommodate children with diverse learning needs.
- Guide curriculum planning and continuous educational improvement initiatives.
- Operations, Compliance & Quality Assurance
- Ensure full compliance with all UAE nursery regulations, policies, and standards.
- Maintain all required licenses, records, documentation, and inspection readiness.
- Develop and monitor health, safety, safeguarding, and emergency procedures.
- Conduct regular audits and quality assurance reviews.
- Implement continuous improvement plans to enhance operational and educational standards.
- Manage daily nursery operations efficiently and effectively.
- Parent Relations & Community Engagement
- Build strong relationships with parents, guardians, and stakeholders.
- Maintain professional communication regarding children's development and well-being.
- Handle parent inquiries, feedback, and concerns professionally and promptly.
- Promote parental engagement and community involvement initiatives.
- Represent the nursery professionally with external stakeholders and regulatory bodies.
- Financial & Administrative Management
- Support budget planning, cost control, and financial monitoring.
- Oversee procurement activities and resource allocation.
- Ensure efficient management of administrative processes and nursery records.
- Monitor enrollment targets and support business growth initiatives.
- Prepare operational reports and updates for ownership and management.
- Requirements &
Qualifications
- Education
- Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education, Education, Child Development, Psychology, or a related field.A Business Administration degree may be considered if supported by significant nursery management experience.
- Professional Certifications
- Montessori, EYFS, or equivalent Early Years qualification is highly preferred.
- Valid First Aid & CPR Certification is required.
- Child Safeguarding Certification is highly preferred.
Additional leadership or educational management certifications are an advantage.
ExperienceMinimum 5 years of experience in nursery management or early childhood education.
Minimum 3 years of experience in a leadership or director-level position.
Mandatory experience in establishing and launching a nursery from scratch within the UAE.Proven experience managing licensing processes, regulatory approvals, and inspections.
Strong experience in recruitment, team building, operational planning, and compliance management.
Experience working with UAE regulatory authorities related to nursery operations.
Skills &
Competencies
- Strong leadership and people management skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong knowledge of UAE nursery regulations and compliance requirements.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively.
- Strong organizational, planning, and problem-solving abilities.
- Budget management and operational planning skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and administrative systems.
Fluent English communication skills; Arabic is an advantage.
Preferred
Candidate Profile
Successfully opened and operated one or more nurseries in the UAE.Strong knowledge of EYFS, Montessori, and early childhood development best practices.
Demonstrated ability to build nursery operations from concept through launch and ongoing management.
Passionate about child development, educational excellence, and operational leadership.
Immediate joiners or candidates with a proven UAE nursery setup background will be given preference.
