Job Description
Service Manager (Interim - Homeless Services)
Location: ManchesterRate: £300 per day (flexible up to £325)Contract: 3 months (with potential extension to 6)Sector: Housing Charity
The Opportunity
We are working in partnership with a leading youth homelessness charity, to recruit an experienced Service Manager to lead a portfolio of community-based (non-accommodation) services supporting young people.
This is a key interim leadership role during a period of organisational restructure, where you will provide strong operational oversight while supporting service development and continuous improvement.
The Role
As Service Manager, you will take responsibility for the day-to-day operational delivery of four services supporting young people aged 18-25.
This is a hands-on leadership role, combining operational oversight with a strong frontline presence.
Key responsibilities include:
* Overseeing the operational management of 4 services
* Direct line management of 4 Service Managers / Team Leaders
* Supporting wider teams, including Support Workers across services
* Driving performance, ensuring KPIs, outcomes and quality standards are met
* Maintaining a visible, hands-on leadership style, engaging directly with teams and services
* Monitoring and improving service delivery through data, reporting and quality assurance
* Supporting delivery through a period of organisational restructure, contributing to service redesign and development plans
* Embedding a culture that ensures services are inclusive, trauma-informed and person-centred
* Working collaboratively with senior leadership and external partners to ensure best outcomes for young people
Services
* Community-based / non-accommodation services
* Supporting young people aged 18-25
* Focus on housing support, independence and wellbeing
* Supporting individuals with complex and multiple needs
About You
We are looking for an experienced, confident operational leader who can step into a service during change and provide stability, direction and support.
Essential experience:
* Proven experience in a Service Manager / multi-service leadership role
* Strong background in housing and homelessness services
* Experience working with young people (18-25)
* A background in Social Work or Social Care is desirable
* Experience supporting individuals with complex needs
* Demonstrable experience managing multiple services and managers
* Strong operational management experience, including KPIs, performance frameworks and service quality
* Experience supporting or delivering organisational change / restructure
Highly desirable:
* Experience in community-based or non-accommodation services
* Experience within the charity / third sector
* Experience working in interim or fast-paced environments
What We're Looking For
* A values-led leader
* Someone who can operate at a "Head of Service-light" operational level
* A hands-on, visible manager comfortable supporting both managers and frontline teams
* Strong people leadership - able to coach, challenge and develop others
* A proactive, solutions-focused approach during periods of change
Why Apply
* Opportunity to work with a nationally recognised charity making meaningful impact
* Play a key role in shaping services during a period of transformation
* Immediate start with potential contract extension