Assistant Area Manager, Early Childhood Education

The position is for a strong leader with experience in early childhood education. The appointee will jointly lead regional early childhood education and preschool and develop regional pedagogy, including preparation for child support and development and evaluation of regional support processes. The role includes leading Finnish as a second language instruction regionally and being responsible for regional student welfare and multi-professional collaboration. The manager acts as supervisor to leading playground supervisors, regional special education teachers and S2 teachers, participates in personnel decisions, and leads regional well-being. The appointee also handles regional open early childhood education and after-school activities under the Basic Education Act. The job is supported by a broad team of administrative professionals and is guided by Helsinki’s strategy and early childhood and preschool plans, and applicable laws. We aim to build inclusive, safe, and equal education with a focus on lifelong learning and future skills. The successful candidate must be able to manage large entities, anticipate changes, and make well-informed, evidence-based decisions with an inclusive and coherent approach. A strong coaching leadership style and ability to motivate staff for renewal are expected. A higher university degree, strong leadership skills, fluency in Finnish and adequate written and spoken Swedish, and broad experience in leadership of early childhood education and knowledge of curricula and legislation are required. Experience with open early childhood education is also required; experience with playground activities is a plus. We offer the opportunity to join a large professional community in Helsinki, with room to grow and develop. The city provides employee benefits including annual Epassi Flex transport, culture, sports and wellbeing benefits. Apply by 25 August 16:00. The first round of interviews is by video; the second round will be 8–9 September and the third round on 15 September. Helsinki City advocates anonymous recruitment to promote equality and non-discrimination. The successful candidate will be a central motivator and executor in the early childhood region.