Cluster Manager

Summary about this job

Detail information about job Cluster Manager. Terms and conditions vacancy

Regional Early Education and Development (REED)

Cluster Manager

Organisation Environment

Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) is recognised internationally as having a critical role in children’s development and important economic and social benefits for families and communities. Good quality ECEC services play an important part in the economic and social fabric of communities in the Wheatbelt region, which is a key agricultural production and food security area of Western Australia.

To support the long-term sustainability of ECEC services in the region, current standalone providers have agreed to implement the new regional "cluster model" of services. Regional Early Education and Development (REED) Inc, provides for a revised multi-site regional structure with a single governance body, centralised management and three geographic clusters each with a cluster manager supporting service quality. An overarching goal of the new model is to contribute to the development and wellbeing of all children, families, communities and the Wheatbelt Region by delivering high quality, sustainable ECEC services throughout the region.

Funding has been provided to REED Inc by the State Government to support the centralised management structure for the initial two years. Additional funding has been provided by Lotterywest to support the implementation of the new model. At the end of this two-year period the new regional organisation will be financially independent.

REED Inc was established in March 2018 and the new Board and General Manager have been appointed.  We are now ready to appoint a Cluster Manager to work closely with the General Manager to support REED’s implementation across the Wheatbelt. There are 3 positions for the Cluster Managers role, across Geographic centre of each cluster is in or around Narrogin, Wongan Hills and Merredin.

Preference will be given to applicants who can model our organisational values and align their practices with our goals. Being able to demonstrate an understanding of the unique operating environment faced by providing ECEC services within the Wheatbelt will be advantageous.

Reporting to the General Manager, this is a senior management role within the organisation.

Remuneration:

The position is a 2-year fixed term contract with the possibility of extension. The salary is up to $72,000 depending on level of qualifications and/or proven experience. Conditions will be in accordance with the Children’s Services Award 2010, but it is envisaged that a REED Enterprise Agreement will be developed in the future which would include all REED employees.

Your key priorities will be:

• Work in conjunction with the General Manager in developing an organisation recognised for its professionalism, with a staff structure and appropriate processes and business systems.
• Build a cohesive team committed to the delivery of high quality, sustainable services.
• Be a resource to support Educators and facilitate their professional development.
• Maintain close networks with the other Cluster Managers and their staff
• Facilitate information opportunities for families and community members.
• Initiate and develop effective networks with other government agencies, schools and other relevant ECEC services.

Required skills, knowledge, qualities, qualifications and proven experience:

ESSENTIAL

• Diploma of Children’s Services
• Experience managing ECEC services
• Proven ability to lead, develop and supervise staff
• OHS knowledge and understanding as it applies to ECEC services
• Knowledge of the child care industry, Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), National Quality Framework (NQF) and the Education and Care Services National Regulations
• Knowledge of current issues in the Children’s Services sector
• Knowledge and understanding of the rural and regional context in which Wheatbelt ECEC services operate
• Drive and commitment

DESIRABLE

• Degree in Early Childhood from a recognised tertiary institution or working towards
• Cultural awareness
• An analytical mind with problem solving skills
• Driver’s license
• Current first aid HLTAID004
• Current working with children check and WA police clearance
• Supervisor’s certificate or eligibility to apply for one

To be a part of this new and exciting initiative with the opportunity to grow your professional skills and experience along with REED as it builds throughout the Wheatbelt, please lodge your application via [email protected]

For a confidential discussion about the role or REED Inc, please contact Kylie Helgesen (General Manager) REED at [email protected] .

Applications are to be lodged via email to: [email protected]

Applications close 23/07/2018

Please note no late applications will be considered.