Service manager residential children's homes

We are seeking a highly motivated, creative, and experienced Service Manager to join our established leadership team within Kirklees Children’s Residential Services. This is a key strategic leadership role, working alongside an existing Service Manager, to lead and shape high-quality residential provision that delivers exceptional care and outcomes for children and young people. ABOUT THE SERVICE Kirklees currently provides a diverse and expanding residential offer, including: Six children’s homes, comprising: Four long-term homes supporting up to 4 children aged 9–18 Two specialist homes for children with disabilities and complex health needs: One long-term home for up to 6 young people aged 11–18 One short breaks home supporting children living with families or carers through planned stays Ongoing development plans to expand provision, including small group living homes supporting up to 2 children ABOUT THE ROLE As a Service Manager, you will: Provide strong, values-driven leadership to Registered Managers and their teams, embedding a positive, trauma-informed and child-centred culture Take strategic oversight of service delivery to ensure excellent standards of care, safeguarding and practice Lead on the recruitment, supervision, performance management and development of managers and emerging leaders Build and sustain effective multi-agency partnerships with local authorities, social workers, health professionals, families and other stakeholders Ensure full compliance with Children’s Homes Regulations 2015, Quality Standards, and Ofsted expectations Hold responsibility for budget management, ensuring services operate effectively within allocated resources Drive continuous improvement and service development, embedding best practice and innovation across all homes ABOUT YOU You will: Have substantial management experience within children’s residential care or a closely related setting Demonstrate a strong understanding of Ofsted frameworks, safeguarding, and regulatory requirements Hold a Social Work Qualification or Level 7 Diploma in Leadership and Management or equivalent (or be willing to achieve this) Have excellent leadership and people management skills, with the ability to inspire and develop high-performing teams Be resilient, adaptable, and committed to working in a challenging yet highly rewarding environment Possess strong communication, organisational, and partnership-working skills Hold a full UK driving licence BENEFITS Our employees are at the heart of everything we do. In return, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including: Competitive salary and local government pension scheme Ongoing professional development and leadership support Access to a range of health and wellbeing initiatives Flexible working opportunities where possible Generous annual leave entitlement Our employees are at the very heart of the services we provide to the community, to help us achieve our ambitions, we want the best possible team. In return, we will make sure you are rewarded with a great range of staff benefits to support you in and out of work. You will be joining a committed, supportive and ambitious leadership team, with a shared vision to provide the very best care for children and young people across Kirklees. If you are ready to take the next step in your leadership career and make a lasting difference to children’s lives, we would love to hear from you. Interviews will take place on 14th July Anna Gledhill is the manager for this role, please contact them on 01484 221000 for an informal discussion, or if you need any more information.