Join ECL as Director of Operations and lead outstanding care, drive transformation and empower lives across Essex and beyond.
Who we are
ECL (Essex Cares Limited) is one of the UK’s leading providers of care and wellbeing services, supporting thousands of people every day to live independently and with confidence. With all our services rated Good or Outstanding, we’re proud to make a real difference through reablement, day opportunities, sensory support, and innovative community services that put people first.
Our purpose is clear: to deliver exceptional care and support for every individual we serve. We’re equally committed to the wellbeing and development of our colleagues, ensuring that ECL remains a place where people can thrive, grow and feel part of something truly meaningful.
Building on strong foundations, we’ve recently expanded beyond Essex; successfully securing contracts in Havering, Barking & Dagenham, and West Sussex. This has set us up for a decade of sustainable growth and innovation.
Alongside this, we’re investing in our technology, our estate and, above all, our people.
About the role
This is a pivotal time to join ECL. As our new Director of Operations, you’ll provide visible, values-led leadership to our high-performing teams and play a central role in shaping the next chapter of our success.
Reporting to the Managing Director and working closely with Essex County Council (our shareholder), you’ll oversee operational excellence across a diverse, multi-site portfolio. You’ll ensure we continue to deliver outstanding, efficient services while driving forward innovation, inclusion, and digital transformation.
You’ll be part of a highly capable Senior Leadership Team with strong operational heads beneath you, freeing you to think and act strategically while staying close enough to the frontline to ensure our culture, quality, and purpose are lived every day.
Key Responsibilities
* Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight across the multi-site portfolio.
* Drive innovation, inclusion and digital transformation to improve service delivery.
* Build and maintain partnerships with local authority, NHS and external stakeholders.
* Lead the Senior Leadership Team and ensure operational excellence and financial sustainability.
* Ensure high quality care and compliance with CQC regulations.
* Champion a culture of continuous improvement and customer focus.
Who we are looking for
We are seeking a collaborative and resilient leader who brings both operational credibility and strategic vision.
You will have senior experience within health and/or social care, local government or the NHS, and be comfortable navigating complexity and building partnerships. You will have a passion for people – customers and colleagues alike – and will balance stability with innovation as we evolve.
Energy, curiosity and a drive for continuous improvement are essential. Experience with commissioning and commissioning relationships will be an advantage.
Qualifications & Experience
* Senior leadership experience in health, social care or related sector.
* Understanding of local authority commissioning and provider delivery dynamics.
* Strong financial and operational management skills.
* Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
Benefits
* Competitive salary package.
* Flexible working arrangements.
* Opportunity to work across Essex, London, and West Sussex.
* Professional development and career progression.
Application Process
To apply please submit a CV and supporting statement (ideally maximum 2 sides of A4 each) that clearly outlines your suitability for the role against the criteria provided in the person specification.
Applications should be emailed to response@peridotpartners.co.uk with the subject “Application: ECL—Director of Operations”.
Applications will be treated under our strict confidentiality and data protection policies.
Timetable
Closing date: 1st December 2025
Candidates informed of outcome: 5th December 2025
First stage interviews: 10th and 11th December 2025
Second stage interviews: 18th December 2025
Commitment to Equality and Diversity
We are committed to promoting equality and diversity and ensuring a fair recruitment process that values differences.
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