Job Description
We are seeking an experienced Manager to lead and manage two supported living services for care leavers aged 16–18. This role involves ensuring the delivery of safe, high-quality accommodation and support that aligns with the Company’s ethos and meets all legal, regulatory, and internal standards. This is a Monday to Friday role.
Person Specification & Key Responsibilities
Experience & Knowledge
The ideal candidate will have a minimum of five years’ experience working with children and young people, including at least two years in a managerial or deputy position. They will have worked in residential or supported accommodation settings and be skilled in leading and motivating care teams. Experience supporting care leavers and managing complex needs is essential. The candidate should be familiar with statutory inspections and local authority oversight, possess in-depth knowledge of child protection and safeguarding practices, and have a thorough understanding of trauma, child development, and transitional support. Knowledge of Safer Recruitment and residential care standards, an awareness of local services and referral pathways, and a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion are also required.
Skills
The successful candidate must demonstrate effective workload and time management abilities, strong leadership with a person-centred approach, and excellent communication, interpersonal, and IT skills. Proficiency in report writing, budgeting, and staff supervision is expected. They should be resilient under pressure and capable of managing challenging situations, including conducting internal investigations and delivering staff training. The candidate will be expected to represent the Company professionally and confidently.
Service Delivery
This role involves overseeing tailored support plans that promote life skills and independence in young people. The Manager will be responsible for ensuring a safe, trauma-informed, and inclusive environment, while maintaining compliance with all legal and policy requirements. Monitoring and reporting on the progress of young people is a key responsibility, as is participating in on-call support when necessary.
People Management
The Manager will lead on Safer Recruitment processes and ensure robust staff inductions. They will supervise, appraise, and support staff development on a regular basis. This includes managing staff rotas and ensuring sufficient coverage at all times. A positive and collaborative team culture must be fostered, while consistently reinforcing safeguarding and health and safety standards.
Resource & Quality Management
The candidate will be accountable for the safety and maintenance of accommodation and other resources. Budget management and accurate record-keeping are essential duties. The Manager will conduct audits, prepare for inspections, and address complaints promptly, driving continuous service improvement. Adherence to data protection and confidentiality requirements is expected at all times.
External Relations
The role includes building and maintaining strong working relationships with local authorities and other professionals. The Manager will represent the Company at multi-agency meetings and reviews and will work in collaboration with other managers to ensure consistency and high standards across services.
If you're passionate about supporting young people into independence, we’d love to hear from you