Job Title

Join to apply for the Head of Children''s Services role at the Y Northern TerritoryAt the Y NT, we are dedicated to helping children, young people, and communities thrive. Whether through our Early Learning Centres, Outside Hours School Care, Recreation Centres, Aquatic facilities, Youth Programs or Remote Pools program, we are committed to supporting Territorians to be connected, educated, resilient, and healthy.The OpportunityAs the Head of Children''s Services, you will provide strategic leadership and oversight of Y NT''s Early Learning Centres and Outside School Hours Care services across the Northern Territory. This executive-level role is responsible for driving high-quality, culturally responsive, and financially sustainable children''s services that reflect the Y NT''s mission, values, and commitment to community strengthening.Leading a multidisciplinary team, including Area Managers, Accounts Administrator, and Enrolments Officer, you will guide service excellence across multiple sites while fostering strong partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, government agencies, and sector stakeholders. This role requires deep expertise in the National Quality Framework, strong leadership capability, and a proven ability to balance quality, community impact, and financial sustainability.5 Weeks Annual Leave.Free access to the recreation facilities we manage.Discounted rates at Y Childcare Centres.Rebatable salary packagingKey ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership & Community EngagementProvide strategic leadership across Early Learning and OSHC services in the NTBuild strong partnerships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, government, and sector stakeholdersChampion inclusive, culturally safe and community-responsive services aligned to Y NT valuesPeople & CultureLead, support and develop Area Managers and central support teamsOversee recruitment, performance management, succession planning and professional developmentManage complex complaints and grievancesOperations, Quality & ComplianceOversee multi-site operations, quality outcomes and regulatory complianceMonitor performance, risk, occupancy and financial indicators across all servicesManage critical incidents and regulatory engagementPedagogy & Educational ExcellenceProvide strategic guidance on pedagogy, mentoring and quality improvementOversee Quality Improvement Plans and inclusive, play-based learning practicesPromote continuous improvement across education teamsOversee budgets, occupancy targets and staffing within ratiosEnsure strong financial governance and sustainable service deliveryIdentify opportunities for growth and community partnershipsLead change initiatives and service improvementsAnticipate sector trends to enhance accessibility, quality and impactQualifications and ExperienceTertiary qualification in Early Childhood Education, Education, or related fieldPostgraduate qualification in Leadership, Management, or Training & Assessment (highly advantageous)Current NT driver''s license.Minimum 15 years'' experience in Early Childhood EducationProven experience in senior or executive leadership rolesExtensive knowledge and application of the National Quality Framework and Early Years Learning FrameworkDemonstrated experience in change management, performance management, and grievance resolutionStrong financial acumen and experience overseeing budgetsDemonstrated cultural competence and experience working with diverse communitiesExcellent written, verbal, and stakeholder engagement skillsWillingness and ability to travel extensively across the NTMandatory RequirementsYMCA, including its Boards of Directors, are committed to the safety and well-being of children and young people in accordance with our Safeguarding Children and Young People framework. YMCA requires that all applicants undergo satisfactory screening prior to commencement, including but not limited to:Valid Working with Children Clearance.Satisfactory Criminal History Check.Any successfully appointed applicant will be required to adhere to the Safeguarding Children and Young People framework, which includes a thorough safeguarding children and young people induction and a commitment to upholding the safety and wellbeing of children and young people throughout their engagement with YMCA.Further InformationAll applications should be accompanied by a cover letter detailing suitability for the position and a copy of your CV.Applications close Monday 12th January 2026We can''t wait to welcome you to the Y! #J-18808-Ljbffr