Operations Manager - CIC Service in Eastbourne

Are you an experienced leader in children’s social care with a passion for improvement? Then we would love to hear from you and welcome your application!

The Operations Manager for Children in Care (CIC) is responsible for managing 3 teams of Social Workers who work solely with CIC and are accountable for all statutory duties in relation to them. The Operations Manager is also responsible for the delivery of Family Time across the county which operates out of 3 centres: Dunbar Drive (Hailsham), Silverlands (Hastings) and Meeching (Newhaven).

This is an exciting opportunity to lead change, improve outcomes for children and families, and contribute to modernising the CIC service.

The post holder will be responsible for ensuring the appropriate delivery of services for children and families within a designated service area, in line with statutory requirements and County Council policies, procedures, and quality standards. They will be expected to achieve annual performance targets for the service unit, implementing plans effectively across the managed area. The role also includes managing the unit’s budget in accordance with the Departmental scheme of delegation, and leading performance management within the context of the Performance Assessment Framework, Performance Indicators, and agreed targets. Effective service delivery will be achieved through strong people management and full responsibility for the formal operation of the County Council’s policies and procedures, including all personnel-related matters.

We are looking for candidates who have:

• Recognised Social Work qualification and current registration with the professional regulatory body
• Management Qualification NVQ Level 4 or a commitment to gain an equivalent qualification
• Ability to identify local service needs and directing resources appropriately
• Ability to contribute to and implement new service initiatives
• Staff supervision and management, team motivation and team building

To apply for this role, please follow the ‘Apply Now’ button above and upload your CV and a Supporting Statement. We will be using your Supporting Statement to shortlist so please be sure to address how you meet all the criteria in the person specification, drawing on any relevant work/life experience, education, or personal interests.

Candidates who meet certain criteria are given priority when we shortlist. See our priority status page for details. Interviews will take place face to face on 6 March in Eastbourne at St Marys House.

We offer a diverse range of benefits to help and support you during your employment. More information can be found on our benefits page.

This post is subject to an Enhanced DBS check or Enhanced check for Regulated Activity with the Disclosure & Barring Services (previously the Criminal Records Bureau). For further information about what is required in this process please go to https://www.gov.uk/dbs-check-applicant-criminal-record. Please note that we require evidence of an overseas police check if you have lived or worked abroad.

Your starting salary will be pro rata if the above position is part-time or term-time only. If you require any reasonable adjustments, due to disability, to enable you to participate fully in the process please contact the hiring manager on the contact details above.