Operations Manager - Childrens Residential

The School for Couples; Penrith; On-site; GBP 57,000 - 69,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading children's residential care organization in Penrith is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee multiple homes. The successful candidate will have a strong leadership background and a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care. This role involves mentoring teams, ensuring quality care, and collaborating with regulatory partners. Competitive salary and benefits package, including private medical insurance and generous leave.

Benefits

Private Medical Insurance

Annual Leave: 35 days

Pension contributions

Bonuses for referrals

Qualifications

• Experience with children in residential settings (at least 6 years).
• 4 years of leadership experience required.
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding and child protection legislation.

Responsibilities

• Oversee children's homes and lead a team of Registered Service Managers.
• Ensure outstanding care while meeting financial and operational goals.
• Promote a child-first focus in all operations.

Skills

Leadership

Child care expertise

Collaboration

Data analysis

Education

Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care and Children & Young People's Services

Job description

Operations Manager - Lead with Purpose

At Wilderness Way, we're growing and evolving, and we're on the hunt for an exceptional Operations Manager to join our team. If you're a dynamic leader with a passion for delivering outstanding care and empowering teams, this is your opportunity to shape the future of children's residential care.

As an Operations Manager, you'll play a pivotal role in overseeing one of our cluster of children's homes, working closely with our Regional Director and leading a team of Registered Service Managers. This isn't just about meeting objectives; it's about creating a legacy of care that transforms lives.

What You'll Do

• Inspire Leadership: Mentor and support your team of Registered Managers, driving exceptional care and positive outcomes for children.
• Deliver Excellence: Ensure outstanding care is consistently provided while meeting financial and operational goals.
• Collaborate: Work directly with our Commissioning and Placements Partners and external agencies to tailor care to each child's needs.
• Empower Teams: Promote our Mission, Vision and Values, coaching managers to achieve their best while maintaining a child-first focus.
• Drive Performance: Use data to monitor and report on service success, identifying opportunities for continuous improvement.

Why Join Us?

• Salary: Up to £68,120 (discussed based on experience and qualifications).
• Annual Leave: 35 days, with extra days for continuous service at 2 and 5 years.
• Flexibility: 40-hour workweek (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm) with the occasional need for flexibility.
• Health & Wellbeing: Private Medical Insurance, Medicash plan, 24/7 GP access, cashback on optical/dental treatments, and gym discounts.
• Recognition & Rewards: Bonuses for referrals (£1,000 per successful referral) and monthly Wilderness Heroes awards.
• Financial Security: Pension contributions and life assurance (2x salary).
• Discounts: High street savings, leisure perks, and tailored local discounts.

A Culture of Growth

• Opportunities to develop through coaching, industry‑recognised qualifications, and career progression pathways.
• Be part of an innovative organisation, leading in therapeutic and assessment‑based residential care.
• A workplace driven by Collaboration, Adaptability, Respect, and Empathy-where your voice matters.

What We're looking for

• Experience: At least 6 years working with children with challenging behaviours in residential settings, and 4 years in leadership.
• Qualifications: Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care and Children & Young People's Services.
• Regulatory Expertise: Strong knowledge of Ofsted, safeguarding, and child protection legislation.
• Operational Excellence: Proven ability to manage budgets, implement policies, and meet organisational goals.
• Leadership Skills: A collaborative, inspiring approach to coaching and mentoring your team.
• Commitment to Children: Passionate about making a difference, with a child‑focused, problem‑solving mindset.
• Flexibility & Mobility: A full UK driving licence and the ability to travel across our services.

All roles will be subject to a successful disclosure at an appropriate level from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), Access NI or Disclosure Scotland as we follow safer recruitment processes. Proof of identity will also be required.

We are an equal opportunities employer.