Deputy manager ( Mat Cover) - Ridgewood

Job IntroductionContract: Mat coverHours: 42.5 hours (40 hours + 2.5 non-contact)Salary: CompetitiveAt Tigers Childcare, we don't just hire for roles - we hire for impact. As Deputy Manager, you'll combine hands-on childcare with leadership responsibilities, ensuring high-quality practice across the centre. You'll work closely with the Manager and wider team to create an environment where children thrive and staff flourish.Why We Do What We DoTigers Childcare creates exceptional environments where children thrive through play, exploration, and meaningful relationships. With 27 centres and growing, we are one of Ireland's leading childcare providers, committed to quality, inclusion, and continuous improvement.The same values that guide how we support children - curiosity, care, consistency, and high expectations - also guide how we support our teams. We invest in your development, prioritise wellbeing, and ensure everyone feels valued and included.How You'll Make An ImpactCombine practitioner and management responsibilities to maintain high standards across the serviceAct as Designated Person in Charge in the Manager's absenceSupport recruitment, supervision, training, motivation, and performance management of staffDeliver a dynamic emergent curriculum tailored to individual children's needsMonitor and maintain all quality, safety, and child protection standardsSupport service development and funding opportunitiesMaintain relationships with external agencies, including Tusla and Early Intervention TeamsEnsure the building, hygiene, and health & safety standards are maintainedAct as Deputy Designated Child Protection Liaison Person, Designated First Aid Person, and Designated Fire Safety PersonAssist during inspections and provide necessary information to Early Years inspectorsWhat You'll Need To SucceedMust-HavesLevel 6 in Early Childhood Care & Education (Level 7/8 preferred)Minimum 3 years post-qualification experience in an early years setting, preferably with supervisory or leadership experienceStrong knowledge of inclusive early childhood education and careDetailed understanding of current legislation relevant to early yearsNice-to-HavesExperience leading teams in a childcare settingKnowledge of Aistear and Solta frameworks in practiceThe Perks, the Pay, and the PurposeWhat The Role Offers YouA meaningful role shaping children's experiences and supporting service successLeadership experience within a supportive, values-led environmentOpportunities for career progression and CPDRecognition for professionalism, impact, and dedicationSalary & BenefitsCompetitive salary30 paid holidays including bank holidays (increases with service)5 days statutory sick payFlyeFit gym discount10% discount on HSF Health PlanReferral bonus (€500 unlimited)Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)Educational Assistance ProgrammeTigers Stripes Recognition ProgrammeComprehensive onboarding, colleague appreciation days, and quarterly paid team meetingsBreak room facilities and on-site parkingLet's Build Something Brilliant TogetherIf this sounds like your kind of role, we'd love to hear from you. Apply via our website.All roles are subject to Garda Vetting and reference checks in line with regulatory requirements and Tigers Childcare's Safeguarding Policy. Tigers Childcare is an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and inclusion.INDDUB