Are you an experienced Children's Home Manager ready to take on an exciting new challenge? We are looking for a passionate, experienced and committed Registered Manager to lead the development and day-to-day operations of a 3-bedroom children's residential home for young people with Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties (EBD) in Harlow, Essex.
Main Purpose of the Role:
As Registered Manager, you will be responsible for ensuring the home operates in line with its Statement of Purpose and complies with the Children's Homes Regulations 2015 and Ofsted Quality Standards. You will lead and develop a confident, skilled team while safeguarding and promoting the welfare of each child in your care.
Key Responsibilities:
* Maintain full compliance with all regulatory and Ofsted requirements.
* Manage the day-to-day operations, promoting a safe, therapeutic, and child-focused atmosphere.
* Provide strong and compassionate leadership to your team, ensuring high morale and performance.
* Uphold and improve standards of care, safeguarding, and compliance in line with current legislation and best practice.
* Work closely with the Deputy Manager and Responsible Individual (RI) to deliver strategic operational success and continuous improvements.
* Prepare for and lead on Ofsted inspections, aiming for 'Good' or 'Outstanding' ratings.
* Build and maintain positive, effective relationships with children, staff, families, and external professionals.
Safeguarding & Compliance:
* Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead for the home.
* Ensure full compliance with Children's Homes Regulations and Ofsted standards.
* Proactively manage risk and promote a transparent safeguarding culture.
* Liaise with Ofsted, LADO, MASH, and other agencies as required.
Child-Centred Care:
* Ensure each child has a care plan reflecting their individual needs.
* Monitor and maintain high standards of care, welfare, and safeguarding.
* Promote the voice of the child and create an inclusive, supportive environment.
* Work in partnership with families and professionals to achieve best outcomes.
Team Leadership & Development:
* Lead a team through recruitment, induction, supervision, and appraisal processes.
* Provide clear direction, coaching, and support to ensure team competence and morale.
* Maintain up-to-date training and qualifications across the staff team.
* Promote professional development and performance management.
Operational & Resource Management:
* Oversee rotas, staffing levels, budgets, and physical maintenance of the home.
* Ensure efficient administration and timely reporting to senior management.
* Maintain health & safety standards and compliance with regulatory frameworks.
* Manage finances, home upkeep, and resources in line with company policy.
What We're Looking For:
Essential:
* Previous management experience in a children's residential care home.
* Level 5 Diploma in Leadership & Management for Residential Childcare (or ready to enrol).
* Strong knowledge of Ofsted standards, inspection processes and safeguarding frameworks.
* Experience managing staff, rotas, complaints, and multi-agency liaison.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
* Full UK driving licence and work authorisation.
* Proven ability to lead, support, and develop a team.
* Strong safeguarding knowledge and child-centred approach.
Desirable:
* Experience working specifically in an EBD home.
* Confident in delivering training and quality assurance.
* Experience in re-registering or opening a new children's home.
* Familiarity with therapeutic care models in residential settings.
What We Offer:
* Competitive salary
* Performance & loyalty bonuses
* Company pension
* Private Healthcare
* Ongoing CPD, training, and leadership support
* A chance to shape the culture, compliance, and outcomes of a newly registered home
* Culture: A family-feel environment with a passionate leadership team
* Purpose: Make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and young people
Job Type: Full-time
Pay:
£52, £65,000.00 per year
Additional pay:
* Bonus scheme
* Loyalty bonus
* Performance bonus
Benefits:
* Casual dress
* Company events
* Company pension
* Cycle to work scheme
* Free parking
* On-site parking
* Private medical insurance
* Sick pay
Schedule:
* Monday to Friday
Application question(s):
* Level 5 Diploma in Leadership & Management for Residential Childcare or working towards
Experience:
* Children's residential home: 2 years (preferred)
Work authorisation:
* United Kingdom (preferred)
Work Location: In person