Operations Manager - Children's Residential Care

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead a cluster of children’s residential homes for Wilderness Way. In this senior position you will shape service delivery, ensure compliance and drive continuous improvement for vulnerable children with challenging behaviours.

Key responsibilities

• Support, mentor and develop Registered Managers to deliver high-quality, child-centred care.
• Oversee operational performance, compliance with Ofsted standards and financial targets across multiple sites.
• Collaborate with commissioning teams, social workers and external agencies to create and monitor tailored care plans.
• Analyse service data and outcomes to identify improvement opportunities.
• Embed Wilderness Way’s mission, vision and values into everyday practice.

Required profile

• Minimum 6 years experience in children’s residential care, including at least 4 years in a leadership role.
• Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health & Social Care and Children & Young People’s Services.
• Strong knowledge of Ofsted regulations, safeguarding and child-protection legislation.
• Proven ability to manage budgets, implement policies and achieve strategic goals.
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel between sites.

Required skills

What we offer

• Salary up to £71,219 per year.
• 35 days annual leave plus additional entitlement after 2 and 5 years.
• Private medical insurance, Medicash plan, 24/7 GP access and health-related discounts.
• £1,000 referral bonus and monthly “Wilderness Heroes” awards.
• Pension contributions, life assurance (2× salary) and a range of leisure discounts.
• Career development through coaching, qualifications and clear progression pathways.