Deputy Service Manager, Luton, Bedfordshire

Social Interest Group; Luton; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a passionate Deputy Service Manager to lead teams in delivering high-quality support for vulnerable populations. This role involves overseeing operations for services that assist homeless families and individuals, ensuring compliance with regulations, and fostering a supportive team environment. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a commitment to diversity, and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized groups. Join a forward-thinking organization that values empowerment and inclusivity, and help make a meaningful impact in the community.

Benefits

25 days annual leave

Training and development opportunities

Employee Assistance Programme

Reflective Practice sessions

Blue Light Discount Card eligibility

Life Assurance Scheme

Annual Staff Awards

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a leadership role within social services.
• Ability to manage financial resources effectively.

Responsibilities

• Oversee service delivery across multiple locations.
• Ensure compliance with contracts and regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Risk Management

Financial Management

IT Proficiency

Understanding of societal marginalization

Education

Experience in social services

Knowledge of women's issues

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Please note, due to the nature of one of the services, it is an occupational requirement that the post holder is female and the post is therefore exempt from the provisions of the Equality Act 2010 in terms of Schedule 9, Part 1, and Paragraph 1 of the Act.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We're hiring a Deputy Service Manager to join our service in Luton. You will be based across two locations: one providing accommodation and support for homeless families, including expectant mothers, mothers with up to two children under 10, or single women seeking guardianship; and the other offering temporary accommodation for single homeless males with support needs such as mental health, substance misuse, or offending history.

You will oversee both services, leading teams to deliver high-quality, trauma-informed support, ensuring compliance with contracts and regulations, and exemplifying leadership to achieve service KPIs and standards.

We seek a passionate, driven, and motivated leader who is knowledgeable about our residents' needs and can support the team in delivering excellent service. Flexibility, innovation, and a commitment to continuous improvement are essential.

The role includes:

1. Line Management and Leadership, supporting staff throughout their employment
2. Assisting the Service Manager with daily operational delivery
3. Ownership of Risk Management, ensuring policies are followed
4. Property and Housing Management, maintaining accommodation standards
5. Financial Management, including petty cash and budgets
6. Contract management, internal auditing, admin, and other duties

Shift/Working pattern:

37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 09:00 - 17:00, with potential for outside hours and participation in an out-of-hours on-call service.

What are we looking for from a Deputy Service Manager?

We value diversity and encourage our staff to bring their authentic selves to work. The ideal candidate will be proactive, adaptable, and able to motivate a team, working independently when needed. Compassion, supportiveness, and leadership in a fast-paced environment are crucial. If this describes you, please review our full JDPS and apply.

We are committed to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). We welcome applications from diverse backgrounds, especially those with lived experience. Our staff Ambassadors actively promote inclusivity and professional growth outside of their roles.

• Due to the nature of this service, the role is open only to female applicants, as it is an occupational requirement and exempt from the Equality Act 2010 Schedule 9, Part 1, Paragraph 1.
• Experience working with people from complex backgrounds or understanding sector challenges is desirable, especially related to women’s issues within this service.
• Experience engaging with diverse groups from various backgrounds.
• IT proficiency, including Microsoft Office and adaptable to new systems.
• Knowledge of social and societal marginalisation related to mental health, addiction, exploitation, homelessness, and criminal justice.

What we offer

• 25 days annual leave, increasing with service length
• Training, development, and progression opportunities
• Employee Assistance Programme, including counselling
• Reflective Practice sessions with an external therapist
• Blue Light Discount Card eligibility
• Life Assurance Scheme
• Annual Staff Awards

Please refer to the JDPS attached for more details on the vacancy and our requirements/key criteria.

WORKING FOR US

Social Interest Group (SIG) is committed to improving lives through good care and support. Our values include ambition, empowerment, transparency, and inclusivity. We aim to empower marginalized individuals by building partnerships and innovative solutions to support recovery and reablement.

We operate across London, Brighton, Bedfordshire, Luton, and Kent, providing residential, community, and hospital support. We uphold high standards within regulatory frameworks.

Watch our Theory of Change video to learn how we support people towards a brighter future.

Please note, this job may close early due to ongoing application screening. We recommend applying promptly.

Additional policies and benefits, including Gender Pay, Diversity, and Privacy, are available on our website.

For recruitment inquiries or application support, email [e-mail] or call 020 3668 9270. We conduct enhanced DBS checks; some roles may require further vetting. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds and do not sponsor visas. Ensure you have the right to work in the UK before applying.