Facilities & Contracts Manager

At Explorers Early Learning, the environments where children learn and grow matter deeply. As we continue to grow, we’re looking for an experienced Facilities & Contracts Manager to lead our facilities operations, strengthen contract management and build scalable systems and processes that support our expanding network.   The Role This role is responsible for ensuring our 21+ centres and Support Office are safe, compliant, well-maintained and operating efficiently. You’ll oversee facilities and contractor relationships across a diverse, multi-site environment, while driving improvements to how we manage assets, contracts, maintenance and operational processes.   Your key responsibilities will include: Developing and managing a rolling preventative maintenance programme, and resolving reactive maintenance requests within agreed timeframes Leading OHS, compliance, and child safety obligations across all centres, including risk assessments, and safety inspections Drive contract management across facilities, maintenance and service providers, including contract negotiations, performance monitoring, renewals, compliance and value for money Build and improve systems and processes to create consistent, scalable and efficient facilities management practices across the business. New centre openings – Facilities readiness sign off, builder handover packs and warranty/defect liability tracking Maintaining an accurate asset register and overseeing minor capital works and refurbishments as well as statutory testing tracking Building strong, trusted relationships with Centre Directors and Operations Managers, and communicating proactively about planned works and disruptions Leading, scheduling, and developing a team of 4–6 direct reports   About You You’re an experienced Facilities & Contracts professional who thrives in a complex, multi-site environment. You bring strong commercial and contract management expertise, with a proven ability to build supplier relationships, improve systems and implement scalable processes. You’re proactive, solutions-focused and always looking for smarter ways of working.   You'll bring: Proven experience in facilities, property or contracts management. Experience managing multiple locations, competing priorities and diverse stakeholders is essential. Strong contract management expertise, including managing supplier relationships, negotiating commercial terms, monitoring service delivery, managing renewals and ensuring contractual obligations are met. A continuous improvement mindset, with the ability to identify inefficiencies, challenge existing processes and implement practical, scalable solutions. An interest in leveraging technology, automation and AI to streamline processes, improve data visibility and drive operational efficiencies. Strong commercial acumen, including experience managing budgets, procurement, suppliers and cost-control initiatives. Sound understanding of building maintenance, contractor management, compliance and workplace health and safety. Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to influence, collaborate and drive accountability across a diverse business.   About Explorers Explorers Early Learning is a family-owned and operated business with more than 21 purpose-built centres across Melbourne. When Lynda Salvo founded Explorers in 2004, her vision was simple but powerful: to build centres where children and educators could truly thrive together. That mission hasn't changed. Every decision we make - from the environments we create to the people we bring into our team - is guided by Lynda's founding belief that exceptional early learning starts with exceptional people.   We invest in our team, create clear pathways for growth, and foster a culture built on accountability, curiosity, and genuine care.   We offer a range of competitive benefits for our team members, including: Ongoing Professional Learning & Development Opportunities Culture Club & Team Events Annual Explorers Awards Night Exclusive Employee Retail Discount Program designed to save you money, with access to discounted in-store and online vouchers from hundreds of retailers  Access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Generous Referral Bonuses for recommending great people to join our team   Our Commitment Explorers is committed to being a flexible, safe, equal, and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people of any age, race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, and cultural background. Child safety is a shared responsibility at Explorers. All team members, regardless of role, play a part in protecting children and upholding our culture of safety.