Antonella Pirri
Greystanes
Summary
With over 20 years of experience in managing multi-site childcare operations, driving quality improvement, and leading high-performing teams. Proven success in ensuring compliance with the National Quality Framework (NQF) and National Quality Standards (NQS), enhancing service performance, and fostering collaborative, safe, and nurturing learning environments. Strong leadership in strategy, governance, stakeholder engagement, and continuous professional development.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Area Manager
Early Learning Centres
02.2022 - Current
- Oversee operations of 7 long day care centres across NSW, ensuring alignment with NQF, NQS, and Department of Education standards. Provide strategic leadership and mentorship to Centre Directors, driving excellence in pedagogy and compliance. Lead assessment and rating preparation, resulting in improved quality outcomes. Manage budgets, occupancy, staffing, and performance KPIs. Cultivate strong relationships with families, communities, and regulators while driving Quality Improvement Plans (QIPs) across centres.
- Mentored staff to improve teaching practices and foster a supportive learning environment.
- Assisted in Recruitment, interviewed and hired employees for new centres.
- Facilitated communication between management, staff, and parents to address concerns promptly and effectively.
- Ensured compliance with all relevant regulations, maintaining detailed records and documentation as required.
Operations Manager
Reggio Emilia ELC
02.2018 - 11.2021
- Directed operational activities across 7 early learning centres, ensuring regulatory compliance and operational excellence. Led new centre setups and service approval processes. Implemented standardised documentation, policy reviews, and centre audits to maintain high-quality practices. Provided guidance and training to Area Managers and Nominated Supervisors, supporting professional growth and service consistency.
- Streamlined operational processes to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
- Developed training programs for staff, fostering skill enhancement and knowledge retention.
- Managed budget allocation and resource planning, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
- Led hiring, onboarding and training of new hires to fulfill business requirements.
Operations Manager
Kids Korner Pty Ltd / Cherry Bridge Station Pty Ltd
05.2014 - 01.2018
- Promoted from Area Manager to Operations Manager overseeing a network of childcare centres. Led service approvals, compliance monitoring, and quality assurance programs. Trained franchisees and Area Managers in regulatory requirements, operations, and financial management. Implemented Qikkids and Kinderloop systems, improving efficiency and transparency.
- Conducted regular performance reviews, identifying areas for improvement and developing action plans to address them.
- Led hiring, onboarding and training of new hires to fulfill business requirements.
Area Manager
Kids Korner Childcare Centres
09.2012 - 01.2014
- Managed multiple childcare centres, ensuring compliance with NQS and National Regulations. Monitored Quality Improvement Plans and provided coaching to Nominated Supervisors. Delivered ongoing professional development and performance management for educators.
Centre Director / Authorised Supervisor
Various Centres (G8 Education, Kids Korner, CFK)
01.1999 - 01.2012
- Directed daily operations, curriculum development, and staff supervision across multiple early learning centres. Developed strong relationships with families and communities, promoted inclusive practices, and maintained high standards of care and education. Led accreditation processes, ensuring services met or exceeded regulatory expectations.
Education
Diploma of Community Services - Children’s Services
01.2003
Certificate of Occupational Health and Safety - undefined
01.2003
Certificate of Child Psychology - undefined
01.2001
Higher School Certificate - undefined
Malvina High School
01.1997
Certification
- Provide First Aid Response in an Education and Care Setting (HLTAID012, expires 2026)
- Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (HLTAID009, expires 2026)
- Identify and Respond to Children and Young People at Risk (CHCPRT001)
- WWWC Number: WWC1815023E (Expiry: 21/12/2028)
Additional Information
Languages: Fluent in Italian (spoken and written)
Additional Information
License: Class 1A Driver’s License
Timeline
Area Manager
Early Learning Centres
02.2022 - Current
Operations Manager
Reggio Emilia ELC
02.2018 - 11.2021
Operations Manager
Kids Korner Pty Ltd / Cherry Bridge Station Pty Ltd
05.2014 - 01.2018
Area Manager
Kids Korner Childcare Centres
09.2012 - 01.2014
Centre Director / Authorised Supervisor
Various Centres (G8 Education, Kids Korner, CFK)
01.1999 - 01.2012
Certificate of Occupational Health and Safety - undefined
Certificate of Child Psychology - undefined
Higher School Certificate - undefined
Malvina High School