Director of Operations

Guardian Jobs; Thame; On-site; GBP 114,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic Director of Operations to lead transformative initiatives within the social care sector. This pivotal role involves championing high-quality care, driving innovation, and building strong partnerships with stakeholders. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in operational leadership, particularly within learning disabilities or supported living. This is a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact, shaping a purpose-driven organization that values the potential of every individual it supports. Join a dedicated Executive Team and help drive real change in the lives of those served.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in senior operational roles within social care.
• Experience in leading dispersed teams and managing large budgets.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership across operational services and champion high-quality care.
• Drive innovation and digital integration while empowering regional teams.

Skills

Senior operational leadership

Social care sector experience

Budget management

Team leadership

Building partnerships

Education

Degree in relevant field

Job description

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Affinity Trust is a national charity with a proud 30-year legacy of delivering life-changing, person-centred support. Today, it supports nearly 1,000 people across a broad geography, thanks to the dedication of almost 2,500 employees. Whether in people’s homes, communities, or care homes, Affinity Trust is committed to enabling people to live fulfilling, independent lives—and to doing so with integrity, compassion, and ambition.

This is a pivotal role at a transformational time. Reporting to the Chief Executive, Kerry Dearden, the Director of Operations will provide visible and values-led leadership across all operational services. They will champion high-quality care, drive innovation and digital integration, build strong partnerships with commissioners and stakeholders, and empower regional teams to thrive. With strategic oversight of a large, complex service portfolio, this leader will play a central part in Affinity Trust’s plans for sustainable growth, leadership development, and sector-wide influence.

The ideal candidate will bring senior operational leadership experience from the social care sector—preferably with a background in learning disabilities, autism, or supported living. They will have a strong track record of leading dispersed teams, delivering excellent care, managing large budgets, and building trusted relationships with partners and commissioners. As a core member of the Executive Team, they may also serve as the nominated individual to the Care Quality Commission (CQC), ensuring compliance and quality remain at the heart of everything Affinity Trust does.

This is more than a leadership job—it’s a chance to drive real change. To build on a strong foundation and help shape an ambitious, purpose-driven organisation that believes in the potential of every person it supports. The role offers a unique platform to make a meaningful difference at scale, while working alongside a committed and evolving Executive Team.

For leaders ready to roll up their sleeves, inspire others, and push the boundaries of what great care can look like—we’d love to hear from you.

Find out more and apply here: https://starfishsearch.com/jobs/affinity-trust-dir-ope/

Closing date: Thursday 5th June 2025

Seniority level

• Director

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Management and Manufacturing

Industries

• Advertising Services

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