Associate Director of Operations – Specialist Care Group
The Associate Director of Operations works alongside an Associate Medical Director and an Associate Director of Nursing and Quality as a “Trio” to deliver safe and effective specialist mental health services.
The Trio collaborates closely with leads for psychological and allied health professions. The specialist care group covers a range of services, including:
* Children & Adolescents – Inpatient & Community
* Early Intervention Services
* University Services
* Additions & Homelessness
* Deaf Mental Health
* Neurodiversity and LD
* Talking Therapies
* Military Veterans
* Specialist Psychology
* Eating Disorders
* Perinatal
Key Responsibilities
* Operational management and leadership of a designated portfolio.
* Ensure financial stability and robust performance management to meet national and local targets.
* Support the Trust’s strategic and business plans.
* Contribute to continuous improvement and service development across Greater Manchester.
* Deputise for the Chief Operating Officer where required.
* Implement service redesigns, develop business cases and identify opportunities for new or expanded services in line with Trust priorities.
* Lead or contribute to service reviews and major projects, utilizing specialist knowledge and analytical skills.
* Maintain effective communication and positive collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.
* Ensure policies and procedures are followed and represent the Trust at external forums.
* Promote service user, carer and staff involvement in service development.
* Ensure strong on‑call and escalation arrangements.
* Work closely with the Chief Operating Officer, other directors and the Executive Leadership Team.
* Supervise staff as required.
* Monitor performance, support financial recovery and manage service budgets in alignment with organisational policies.
Qualifications and Eligibility
* Successful completion of satisfactory pre‑employment checks.
* Subscription to the DBS Update Service (fee of £16 per year) and maintenance of registration throughout employment.
* Demonstrated ability to lead within a multidisciplinary mental health environment.
Additional Information
The Trust values diversity and commits to removing barriers to employment for candidates from under‑represented groups, including BAME, Disabled and LGBT+ communities. If you would like to discuss the recruitment process or receive additional support, we welcome you to contact us.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Usage: Candidates may use AI tools when writing job applications. The assessment of an application is made on its entirety; AI‑generated content often lacks real‑life examples and may misrepresent achievements. The Trust monitors AI usage and reserves the right to follow up on specific responses and examples.
We are an approved sponsor for the Skilled Worker visa. Applications from individuals requiring sponsorship will be considered where the role is eligible. Checks are on the UK Government website; offers may be withdrawn if eligibility is not met.
Benefits and Pay
* Pay Enhancements
* 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays, rising to 29 days after 5 years and 33 days after 10 years
* Excellent pension
* Cycle to work scheme
* Salary sacrifice car scheme
* Well‑being programme
* Blue Light Card discounts
* FuelGenie fuel cards (applicable roles)
About Greater Manchester Mental Health (GMMH)
GMMH employs over 7,000 staff across 122+ locations, providing inpatient and community‑based mental health care throughout Greater Manchester, the North West and beyond. We safeguard children, young people and vulnerable adults and encourage staff to innovate care and develop skills.
#J-18808-Ljbffr