Child Protection Area Operations Manager

Victorian Government - Department of Families, Fairness, and Housing; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Victorian Government - Department of Families, Fairness and Housing seeks an Area Operations Manager to oversee local area operations, including staff management, budget and performance. The role drives practice changes to ensure safety and development of children and young people, and delivers on statutory responsibilities.

The position requires building partnerships with government, industry and community, representing the department in forums, and supervising Child Protection roles in the

Qualifications

• Experience in leading teams in a public sector or child protection context.
• Strong budgeting and resource planning skills.
• Ability to manage complex inter‑agency partnerships.

Responsibilities

• Oversee operational management across local area, including budget, HR and performance of staff.
• Lead practice and develop plans to improve safety and outcomes for children and young people.
• Represent the department at industry forums, inter‑agency committees and government bodies.

Skills

People management

Budget management

HR & performance management

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Bachelor-level leadership/management in social services

Tools

Policy collaboration tools

Job description

THE ROLEThe Area Operations Manager is responsible for operational management across the local area including financial, budget, HR and performance management of staff, high profile case reviews and completion of ministerial briefings. The position leads practice to develop plans to bring about the changes necessary to ensure the safety, stability and development of children and young people and to promote the achievement of case plan objectives within specified timeframes.In this role you will ensure that program targets, performance objectives and statutory responsibilities are met and establish, manage and maintain relationships and partnerships with internal and external stakeholders, including with government, industry, and community to deliver on outcomes and targets. You will represent the department at industry forums and inter-agency committees, taskforces and government and non-government bodies to build and maintain partnerships and implement departmental policy and initiatives for the area.You will demonstrate expert skills in managing people and resources, including senior staff, ensuring that the area is delivering on and meeting its statutory responsibilities, including the provision of a quality child protection program.The position will work collaboratively with key internal and external stakeholders and directly supervises other Child Protection roles in the local area.The transportation of children is a requirement of this role, as such a valid driver's licence and willingness to travel, including in country regions is essential. There may be the requirement to work overnight and, travel in evenings and early mornings. On occasions, additional hours may be required to ensure the wellbeing of children.You will possess an understanding of Aboriginal culture and demonstrate an understanding of the legislative, policy and practice requirements relating to Aboriginal children, families, and communities, including the Aboriginal Child Placement Principle and the programs and initiatives that support its implementation in child protection practice.ACCOUNTABILITIES INCLUDERisk assessment and analysis: proactively identifies and analyses patterns associated with risk assessment and competently and autonomously exercises delegationsCritical inquiry: sees emerging issues and takes proactive steps to manage potential implications. Displays broad thinking, drawing on research and literature to support evidence informed practice.Standardised reporting: has recognised expertise in utilising information for the purpose of providing and interpreting standardised reports.Reflective Practice: promotes practice quality and consistency through practical solutions to time-management issues and prioritising reflective practice for practitionersPlease open the position description to read more.This role requires a Working with Children Check.Further advice on obtaining this check can be found here: https://www.vic.gov.au/working-with-children-checkPractice Induction Program (PIP)All new Child Protection practitioners are required to complete mandatory, full-time five-week Practice Induction Program (PIP). This training is designed to provide new employees with the necessary practice of knowledge and skills relating to the role. This is delivered online and in person with attendance in Melbourne required for some week blocks. Regional employees will be supported with travel and accommodation arrangements.For more information on what this means, and all other requirements, please see the Position Description.HOW TO APPLYApplicants are encouraged to apply online. Attachments can be uploaded in .doc, .docx, .pdf, .txt or .rtf formats.Applicants are required to submit a CV and Cover Letter (max 2 pages) outlining their suitability to the role in line with the Key Selection Criteria.Applicants must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or hold a valid work permit or visa. Work eligibility will be checked as part of the recruitment process.Preferred candidates will be required to complete pre-employment screening, including a national police check and misconduct screening.For more information on working with us and our recruitment process, please visit Department of Families, Fairness and Housing Victoria | Jobs (www.dffh.vic.gov.au/jobs)Please apply to submit your interest in this position.