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Job Description Job Title: Divisional DirectorReports to: Operations DirectorBased: Ideally you will based on the M23 Corridor (Kent/Surrey) travel required throughout the South West/West and South West London.Employment Type: Fixed term contractSalary: DOE plus Company Car and up to 25% annual salary bonusAbout the roleWe are seeking an exceptional Divisional Director Operations (FTC) to lead and shape operational performance across a large multi-site early years division. This is a senior leadership opportunity for a proven operator who thrives in complex, fast-paced environments and is passionate about delivering outstanding outcomes for children.You will play a pivotal role in driving operational excellence, quality standards, commercial performance, and team engagement across a region of approximately 4560 nurseries, supported by a team of senior operational leaders.About Busy BeesEstablished in 1983,Busy Bees is the largest early years education provider in the UK and the third largest globally, with nearly 1,000 childcare centres across 9 countries. Were a values-driven organisation built on care, quality, service and people. With ambitious growth plans, theres never been a more exciting time to join our team!About the BenefitsSector-leading Family LeaveAnnual salary bonusPrivate Medical insuranceHive Rewards Gateway Benefits Platformwith discounts and perks.Childcare Discount33 days of holiday, including bank holidays and your birthday off.Health and Wellbeing Supportthrough our Employee Assistance Program and Mental Health Apps.Career Development and Trainingopportunities to help you grow. Key ResponsibilitiesLead the delivery of regional operational strategy in alignment with divisional objectivesDrive performance across key metrics including occupancy, profitability, quality, and complianceIdentify and implement opportunities for operational improvement and efficiencyBuild strong, collaborative relationships with the Regional Managing Director and senior stakeholdersEnsure excellence across Ofsted readiness, safeguarding, Quality, and Health & Safety standardsCoach, develop, and performance-manage Area Directors to deliver high-impact leadershipChampion a culture of high performance, accountability, and continuous improvementLead regional engagement strategies, including surveys, action plans, and retention initiativesAct as a culture custodian, embedding organisational values across all levelsStrengthen communication channels to ensure clarity, alignment, and feedback loops across the regionEngage effectively with external stakeholders including local authorities, regulators, suppliers, and safeguarding partners About YouWe are looking for a proven senior operational leader with experience in managing large-scale, multi-site operations ideally within early years, education, hospitality, social care or retail.You will bring:Strong experience leading multi-site operational teams at scaleA track record of delivering commercial and performance improvementDeep understanding of budget management and EBITDA driversStrong leadership capability with a focus on coaching and developing senior managersExcellent analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and drive insight-led decisionsA collaborative leadership style with strong stakeholder management skillsA passion for quality, safeguarding, and outstanding service deliveryThe ability to manage complexity, prioritise effectively, and deliver resultsLeadership BehavioursStrategic and operational delivery focus aligned to business objectivesStrong commercial acumen and financial awarenessInspirational leadership style that builds high-performing teamsData-driven decision maker with strong analytical capabilityContinuous improvement mindset focused on efficiency and service excellenceHighly collaborative with strong influencing skills across internal and external stakeholdersProactive problem solver with a solution-focused approachExternal awareness of best practice and sector innovationApply now!This is a rare opportunity to step into a high-impact divisional leadership role where you will directly influence operational success, quality outcomes, and the experience of thousands of children and families.You will be joining a values-led organisation where leadership, culture, and continuous improvement are at the heart of everything we do.