Executive Director, Preschools and Early Childhood Services

Executive Director, Preschools and Early Childhood Services Every child and young person deserves a great education.

We have a strategy that aims to unlock every child's potential now and into the future, one that in partnership with learners, students, parents, and the wider South Australian community will build a world‑leading public education system. One that is equitable and prioritises learning and wellbeing.

Together we will make our education system the best it can be. When our children and young people thrive, so do our communities and our state.

About the role The Executive Director, Preschools and Early Childhood Services provides strategic and innovative leadership to advance the Department for Education's priorities and deliver the outcomes of the Schools and Preschools (SaP) Division. The role leads system‑wide strategy and operational oversight across early childhood services, supporting the delivery of high‑quality education and care to more than 25,000 children each day.

You will play a key role in progressing Our Strategy for Public Education in South Australia and leading the implementation of reforms arising from the Royal Commission into Early Childhood Education and Care, working in close collaboration with senior leaders across the department.

Key responsibilities

Provide executive leadership, direction and oversight of the Preschools and Early Childhood Services Division

Lead the delivery and continuous improvement of early childhood education and care services statewide

Drive implementation of early childhood reform and policy initiatives, including Royal Commission recommendations

Translate strategic priorities into effective operational outcomes across programs, projects, and services

Build strong partnerships with internal stakeholders, education leaders, and the community

Essential qualifications and competencies

Extensive executive leadership experience in early childhood or education systems within large, complex organisations, with a proven ability to lead system‑wide reform and organisational change.

Strong knowledge of early childhood policy and practice, including the National Quality Standard, supported by highly developed strategic, analytical, communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

Relevant tertiary qualifications in education (postgraduate qualifications desirable) or equivalent experience, and a current (or ability to obtain) Department for Human Services Working with Children Check.

What you will get in return

A three‑year executive contract.

Lead strategy and business outcomes within one of SA's biggest departments.

Be a part of a forward‑thinking and dynamic team and enjoy a supportive and collaborative work environment.

Special Conditions

The successful applicant is required to gain a Department for Human Services (DHS) working with children check (WWCC) prior to being employed, which is required to be renewed every five years before expiry.

The incumbent will be required to undertake RRHAN‑EC (Responding to Risks of Harm, Abuse and Neglect - Education Care) Facilitator Lead (Masterclass) extended course or the online (Fundamentals) course, which will be required to be updated every three years.

For all other Special Conditions please refer to the attached Position Description.

Applications should be made through the I Work For SA website.

For further information including position locations, and details on how to apply for this vacancy, please go to iworkfor.sa.gov.au and search for vacancy number 896255.

The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part‑time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.

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