Operations Manager - Childrens Residential

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

Job summary

A leading children's residential care provider is seeking an Operations Manager to lead and mentor a team in delivering exceptional care. You'll oversee one of the homes, ensuring operational excellence and a child-first focus while collaborating with external partners. Ideal candidates will have significant leadership experience and a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care. This position offers competitive salary, flexible hours, and comprehensive benefits.

Benefits

Private Medical Insurance

Bonuses for referrals

Pension contributions

Health & Wellbeing discounts

Qualifications

• At least 6 years working with children with challenging behaviours in residential settings.
• 4 years in a leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of Ofsted, safeguarding, and child protection legislation.
• Ability to manage budgets and implement policies.
• Full UK driving licence and ability to travel across services.

Responsibilities

• Inspire Leadership by mentoring and supporting team members.
• Ensure consistent outstanding care while meeting operational goals.
• Collaborate with partners and external agencies to tailor care.
• Use data to monitor and report on service success.
• Promote a child-first focus and coaching managerial staff.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Problem-solving

Collaboration

Budget Management

Education

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

Job description

Overview

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 oversee one of our cluster of children's homes, work closely with our Regional Director, and lead a team of Registered Service Managers. This role is about creating a legacy of care that transforms lives.

Responsibilities

• 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.

What we're offering

• 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.

Culture and 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.

To apply, click 'Apply Now' to register your details or contact us. All roles are subject to a successful disclosure at an appropriate level from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), Access NI or Disclosure Scotland as part of safer recruitment processes. Proof of identity will also be required. We are an equal opportunities employer.