James Jennings

A dedicated, reliable and highly organised professional with over 30 years' experience in leadership and operational management within the Early Years sector. Throughout my career I have successfully managed teams, delivered exceptional customer service, supported business growth, maintained compliance and built positive relationships with parents, colleagues and external professionals. I am now seeking a new career opportunity where I can transfer my extensive management, customer service, organisational and administrative skills into a different sector.

I am a quick learner, thrive in busy environments and enjoy working collaboratively whilst maintaining high professional standards.

Deputy Manager - Busy Bees Nursery - Surrey

(2025-01 - 2026-05)

Supported the Nursery Manager in the day-to-day management of a busy 90-place nursery. Reason for leaving: I became a full-time carer for a family member due to personal circumstances. Having completed this responsibility, I am now looking forward to returning to work in a new environment where I can utilise my transferable skills.

• Supporting the leadership and supervision of a large staff team.
• Ensuring the smooth day-to-day operation of the nursery.
• Maintaining high standards of customer service.
• Conducting parent tours and promoting the nursery to prospective families.
• Supporting occupancy growth through marketing initiatives.
• Organising family events and activities.
• Ensuring compliance with policies, procedures and health and safety requirements.

Deputy Manager - CC Nurseries - Twickenham

(2024-08 - 2025-01)

Worked alongside the Nursery Manager supporting the operation of a busy 90-place nursery. Reason for leaving: The daily commute became increasingly difficult due to unreliable public transport.

• Supporting the day-to-day management of the setting.
• Delivering excellent customer service to existing and prospective families.
• Conducting nursery show-rounds.
• Helping increase occupancy through successful parent engagement.
• Supporting staff and maintaining operational standards.

Deputy Manager - Wonderbloom Nursery - Woking

(2024-01 - 2024-12)

Worked within a smaller nursery, combining room leadership with wider management responsibilities. Reason for leaving: Nursery closed due to funding.

• Supporting the Nursery Manager with daily operations.
• Leading and mentoring staff.
• Ensuring high standards of care and education.
• Building strong relationships with parents.

Room Leader - Fennies - Woking

(2022-03 - 2023-12)

Managed a busy nursery room within a large organisation. Reason for leaving: Promotion to Deputy Manager.

• Leading and supervising a staff team.
• Planning daily operations.
• Supporting children's learning and development.
• Working closely with senior management to maintain quality standards.

Room Leader - ICP Nurseries - Wandsworth & Shere

(2019-02 - 2022-03)

Worked within large nursery settings leading teams and supporting the delivery of high-quality childcare. Reason for leaving: Long commute and unreliable public transport.

• Leading room teams.
• Supporting staff development.
• Maintaining accurate records.
• Delivering excellent customer service to families.
• Ensuring compliance with safeguarding and health and safety procedures.

Level 3 Early Years Qualification