Regional Unpaid Work Operations Manager

Ministry of Justice; Bedford; Hybrid; GBP 47,000 - 49,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual Leave

Pension

Job summary

Ministry of Justice in Bedford is seeking an UPW Operations Manager to lead the regional team and drive delivery of unpaid work contracts with a focus on reducing reoffending. You will report to the Head of Unpaid Work for your region and oversee a dispersed staff across multiple sites.

You will ensure health and safety compliance, collaborate with partner agencies and maintain high standards of service, while balancing strategic objectives with practical day‑to‑day delivery.

Qualifications

• Experience of managing staff in a practical work environment.
• Understanding of Probation Service in the Criminal Justice System.
• Ability to manage risk and multi‑agency collaboration.
• Experience of working under pressure and meeting deadlines.
• Ability to interpret and apply performance reports.

Responsibilities

• Provide effective leadership and ensure quality delivery of practice and team performance.
• Ensure safe and effective delivery of court orders and associated risks.
• Collaborate with courts, partners and stakeholders to maximise outreach and placements.
• Recruit and develop staff, manage attendance and diversity matters.
• Oversee project development and maintain efficient asset and fleet management.

Skills

Staff management

Multi‑agency collaboration

Health and safety

Performance reporting

Education

Level 3 IOSH or equivalent

D1 Driving Licence

Tools

Driving licence

Job description

Ministry of Justice in Bedford is seeking an UPW Operations Manager to lead the regional team and drive delivery of unpaid work contracts with a focus on reducing reoffending. You will report to the Head of Unpaid Work for your region and oversee a dispersed staff across multiple sites.

You will ensure health and safety compliance, collaborate with partner agencies and maintain high standards of service, while balancing strategic objectives with practical day‑to‑day delivery.