Description Can you inspire a team, deliver results, and ensure every child receives the care they need? We’re looking for an Operations Manager to lead, inspire, and support a dedicated team delivering high-quality social work services for children and families. We are looking for an Operations Manager (12-month fixed-term) to lead and support Children’s Services Single Point of Advice (SPOA) & Emergency Duty Service. An Operations Manager oversees the day-to-day management of the SPOA and EDS service areas, ensuring budgets are well managed, resources are balanced, performance targets are met, and services continuously improve. Sitting within Locality Social Care, it requires strong safeguarding expertise and experience in statutory work. The post holder is responsible for overseeing screening and assessment processes in both services, ensuring decisions are proportionate, safe, and made in line with procedures and timescales. The people we are looking for in this vital position will have: A recognised Social Work qualification and current registration with the professional regulatory body. a Management Qualification NVQ Level 4 or a commitment to gain an equivalent qualification. Knowledge of child protection procedures and childcare planning, relevant legislation and case law. Communication skills with the ability to produce detailed written reports on technical matters for a broad audience and able to use negotiation and influencing /presentation skills Unsociable working hours will be required. Being an Operations Manager you get to make a real difference in children’s lives. Leading and supporting a skilled team to respond to urgent needs is challenging but incredibly rewarding. See the impact of our teams decisions and help staff grow makes a truly fulfilling career. To apply for this role, please follow the ‘Apply Now’ button above to submit your CV and a Supporting Statement. We will use your Supporting Statement to shortlist so please be sure to address how you meet all the criteria in the person specification, drawing on any relevant work/life experience, education, or personal interests. Please download the Job Description & Person Specification for more information. For guidance on how to write an application see our how to apply page. Interviews will take place face to face on 28 November in Lewes. Candidates who meet certain criteria are given priority when we shortlist. See our priority status page for details. We offer a diverse range of benefits to help and support you during your employment. More information can be found on our benefits page. For an informal discussion about this opportunity contact Jo Nash – Jo.nash@Eastsussex.gov.uk For putting your skills to good use, choose East Sussex 'There are a whole range of different skills people can bring to the role. I find the work very rewarding and enjoy the variety this type of work brings.' - Gary, Day Service Support Worker