Shape the future of pedagogy and inclusion in Catholic early learning across North Queensland

• Join a purpose-driven and values-led Senior Leadership Team shaping early education in regional Queensland
• Play a strategic role in an evolving organisation during a phase of meaningful growth and innovation
• Champion inclusion and pedagogical excellence while leaving your personal leadership legacy
• Thrive in a collaborative, flexible, and child-first environment guided by Catholic values

About Mary MacKillop Childcare North Queensland

Mary MacKillop Childcare North Queensland (MMCNQ) is a young and growing organisation, delivering high-quality early childhood education and care across a vast 434,000 sq km of the Diocese of Townsville. Since its establishment in 2020, MMCNQ has expanded to include six Early Learning Centres, nine Kindergartens, and fourteen Outside School Hours Care centres — all committed to nurturing children and families through holistic, inclusive, and faith-aligned programs.

Backed by a passionate leadership team and strategic clarity, MMCNQ is in the early chapters of its journey. The organisation’s 2023–2027 Strategic Plan sets bold goals: becoming the provider of choice in Catholic communities, fostering a culture of positive engagement, and investing deeply in its people and innovation.

With values of integrity, inclusion, respect, and community at its core, MMCNQ offers a warm, adaptable, and welcoming culture — where professionals are empowered to bring their best selves and grow meaningful careers.

For more information, please visit: mmcnq.catholic.edu.au

About the Opportunity

Mary MacKillop Childcare North Queensland (MMCNQ) is looking for a full-time Education Manager (Program, Practice & Inclusion) based in Townsville, QLD.

This is a strategic leadership opportunity reporting directly to the Executive Director and forming part of MMCNQ’s tight-knit, collaborative Senior Leadership Team (SLT). The team meets weekly for authentic engagement, hosts quarterly strategy offsites, and maintains a values-based approach to shared leadership.

As part of this dynamic role, you’ll also enjoy regular travel throughout North Queensland, providing vital on-the-ground leadership across MMCNQ’s network of early learning centres. Travel typically occurs on a monthly basis, ranging from overnight visits to multi-day engagements, allowing you to stay closely connected with teams, communities, and families — and to bring strategy to life where it matters most.

More specifically, your responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Leading curriculum and pedagogy frameworks across early learning, kindergartens, and OSHC services
• Developing and embedding inclusive practices and behavioural strategies that align with Catholic values
• Building and rolling out high-impact professional development initiatives for educators
• Influencing staff capacity, compliance, and program design in line with ACECQA and NQF standards
• Working with other SLT members to embed the MMCNQ Strategic Plan across services
• Championing child safety, inclusion, and quality assurance within a positive, mission-led culture
• Collaborating with diocesan agencies and community partners to strengthen education outcomes

This role provides you with the scope to shape and define its future — bringing your expertise, vision, and heart to an organisation that welcomes innovation and impact.

About You

To qualify, you will need a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, and Queensland College of Teachers registration is strongly preferred. You must have a minimum of five years experience in early childhood leadership and a proven ability to influence across large or multi-site environments.

You’ll also bring expertise in:

• Early years pedagogy, program development, and inclusive education
• Compliance and regulatory frameworks (NQF, ACECQA)
• Project and people leadership in dynamic organisational settings

Additionally, we value:

• Strategic insight with adaptability in fast-growing environments
• Warmth, openness, courage, and the ability to lead with integrity
• A calm, collaborative approach with a deep appreciation for community-led service
• Curiosity and drive to contribute to an evolving education model

This is a role for a visionary and practical leader ready to leave their stamp on an organisation that is genuinely mission-driven and values-led.

About the Benefits

This is a permanent, full-time leadership opportunity based in Townsville, QLD.

You will enjoy a total remuneration package of up to $185,000, plus a $15,000 vehicle allowance. 

Your overall package includes:

• Base salary (aligned to experience and step level)
• Superannuation contributions
• Leave loading entitlements

Relocation assistance may be negotiable for the right candidate.

In addition, MMCNQ offers a range of supportive and people-first benefits:

• Salary packaging options
• Flexible scheduling to accommodate personal and family commitments
• Travel reimbursement for regional engagement
• Quarterly leadership offsites and strategic planning sessions
• Professional development and leadership coaching
• Opportunities for lateral career movement and progression within the SLT
• A values-aligned, warm, and highly collaborative workplace culture

Ready to Inspire and Influence?

If you’re seeking a leadership opportunity where your vision, values, and vocation align, MMCNQ invites you to apply. Help lead the next chapter in Catholic education and care — and make a lasting impact across North Queensland.

Apply today and help shape the future of early learning in our Diocese.