Head of Operations (Care Homes)
Harbour Healthcare - Location: National (regular travel across 40 care homes)
Operational Leadership & Support
* Provide strategic and operational support to Regional Managers to ensure each care home delivers high‑quality, person‑centred care.
* Monitor performance, compliance, occupancy, staffing, and financial targets across regions, intervening when performance dips.
* Lead on the implementation of new policies, procedures, and improvement plans across the estate.
* Ensure effective communication and collaboration across all operational levels.
* Conduct regular regional and home visits to support and guide local leadership.
Quality & Compliance
* Support Regional Managers in ensuring homes are fully compliant with CQC/Care Inspectorate (Wales) standards and internal governance frameworks.
* Participate in and support preparation for CQC/Care Inspectorate (Wales) inspections, internal audits, and safeguarding investigations.
* Promote a culture of continuous improvement and learning.
Leadership & People Management
* Mentor and develop Regional Managers, supporting their leadership capabilities and performance.
* Deputise for the Operations Director in meetings, reporting, and decision‑making as needed.
* Support recruitment, onboarding, and development of senior care home leaders (e.g. Home Managers).
Strategic Development
* Contribute to business planning, growth strategy, and innovation projects.
* Identify risks and opportunities at both regional and national levels, escalating appropriately.
* Support integration and mobilisation of new homes or services into the operational portfolio.
Performance Monitoring & Reporting
* Analyse performance data, providing insights and recommendations to the Operations Director.
* Lead or contribute to the resolution of underperformance or operational crises.
Essential Requirements
* Proven experience in a senior operations role within the care sector, preferably across multiple sites.
* In‑depth knowledge of CQC/CIW regulations and best practices in adult social care.
* Strong leadership, mentoring, and team development skills.
* Excellent communication, analytical, and problem‑solving abilities.
* Willingness and ability to travel nationally on a regular basis.
* Driving licence.
* Enhanced DBS check required in relation to Children and Adults.
Desirable
* Relevant health or social care qualification (e.g. RN, NVQ Level 5 in Health & Social Care or Leadership & Management).
* Five years’ experience in a senior operational role.
* Experience in leading through regulatory inspection or turnaround situations.
* Commercial acumen with budget and financial management experience.
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