Impactful Operations Lead for Employability & Partnerships

THE FORWARD TRUST; Gravesham; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

The Forward Trust is seeking an Operations Manager to lead, performance-manage, and grow the Connect to Work contract in Medway and Gravesham. This full-time role (35 hours/week) requires at least 3 years of managerial experience in the employability sector and a track record of high-quality delivery.

The successful candidate will be part of the senior leadership team, drive IPS fidelity, coach staff, and develop partnerships with employers, prisons, NHS trusts, and local authorities.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of managerial experience in employability or similar services.
• Knowledge of IPS standards and compliance (ESFA/DWP) beneficial.
• Strong relationship-building with employers, partners and stakeholders.
• Excellent organisation, analytical skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.

Responsibilities

• Lead operational management of IAG, pre-employability, and employability services.
• Ensure IPS standards are met through coaching, audits and QA.
• Drive performance management, KPI monitoring and contractual compliance.
• Contribute to budgets, bids, and business growth opportunities.
• Line-manage a high-performing team and foster development.
• Strengthen employer engagement and deliver job fairs, workshops, and inclusive recruitment initiatives.
• Build and maintain partnerships across prisons, NHS trusts, local authorities, and community providers.
• Oversee caseloads and workflows to ensure efficient delivery and strong participant outcomes.
• Uphold safeguarding, compliance, and governance for safe, effective services.

Skills

Leadership

Performance management

Contract delivery

Quality assurance

Stakeholder management

Line-management

Job description

The Forward Trust is seeking an Operations Manager to lead, performance-manage, and grow the Connect to Work contract in Medway and Gravesham. This full-time role (35 hours/week) requires at least 3 years of managerial experience in the employability sector and a track record of high-quality delivery.

The successful candidate will be part of the senior leadership team, drive IPS fidelity, coach staff, and develop partnerships with employers, prisons, NHS trusts, and local authorities.