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- Tasks: Lead and inspire teams to deliver high-quality, person-centred services in a regulated care environment.
- Company: Join a leading national charity focused on transforming lives through innovative care solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model, competitive salary, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative journey, shaping services that empower individuals with complex needs.
- Qualifications: Proven senior leadership experience in social care or related sectors, with strong regulatory knowledge.
- Other info: This is a 12-month fixed-term contract, perfect for those seeking a meaningful challenge.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
Are you an experienced and values-driven senior leader with a track record of delivering high-quality services in regulated care environments? Do you thrive in fast-paced, multi-site operations where people are at the heart of everything you do?
We’re supporting a leading national charity to recruit an interim Director of Operational Services on a 12-month fixed-term contract. This is a key leadership role, responsible for ensuring that services are person-centred, high-quality, and compliant — and most importantly, that they truly change lives.
You’ll be leading a team of five Heads of Operations and a PA, working closely with senior colleagues across the organisation to deliver on strategic priorities, embed a culture of excellence, and ensure people with complex needs can live the lives they choose.
Key Responsibilities- Lead and inspire regional operational teams to deliver safe, responsive, and person-centred services.
- Ensure services meet or exceed all regulatory standards (CQC, Ofsted, CIW, etc.).
- Drive a performance-focused culture grounded in values, inclusion, and support.
- Monitor and manage operational budgets, driving financial sustainability and identifying opportunities for growth.
- Champion innovation, technology, and service improvement to enhance independence and quality of life for those supported.
- Collaborate with colleagues across directorates to ensure strategic alignment and cross-organisational effectiveness.
- Represent the organisation externally and build trusted relationships with stakeholders, commissioners, regulators, and families.
- Proven experience at senior leadership level in social care, specialist education, or the public/voluntary sector.
- Strong understanding of regulatory frameworks and a successful track record of multi-site leadership across diverse services.
- Skilled at managing change, driving innovation, and embedding service improvement.
- Comfortable working strategically while staying grounded in day-to-day operational realities.
- Excellent interpersonal and influencing skills with a collaborative, people-first approach.
- Experience working with commissioners, regulators, and other key stakeholders in the social care landscape.
- A commitment to inclusion, co-production, and safeguarding best practice.
This role offers a fantastic opportunity to join a forward-thinking organisation at a time of transformation and innovation. You’ll play a pivotal part in shaping services that genuinely empower people with complex disabilities to thrive.
Interested? If you’re an experienced interim or operational leader looking for your next challenge, we’d love to hear from you. Please get in touch for a confidential conversation or apply with your CV today.
Contact Detail:
HARRIS HILL Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Operational Services
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the social care sector, especially those who have experience in leadership roles. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and stakeholders, as personal recommendations can significantly boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific regulatory frameworks mentioned in the job description, such as CQC and Ofsted. Being able to discuss these in detail during interviews will demonstrate your expertise and commitment to compliance.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to showcase your experience in managing multi-site operations by gathering specific examples of how you've driven performance and innovation in previous roles. This will help you illustrate your capability to lead diverse teams effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the charity's mission and values thoroughly. Understanding their approach to person-centred care will allow you to align your responses and demonstrate how your leadership style fits with their organisational culture.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Operational Services
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your senior leadership experience in social care or related fields. Emphasise your track record of delivering high-quality services and managing multi-site operations, as these are key aspects of the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, address how your values align with the charity's mission. Discuss specific examples of how you've driven innovation and service improvement in previous roles, showcasing your commitment to person-centred care.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Clearly outline your understanding of regulatory frameworks and your experience working with stakeholders such as commissioners and regulators. This will demonstrate your capability to navigate the complexities of the social care landscape.
Showcase Leadership Qualities: Use your application to illustrate your leadership style. Provide examples of how you've inspired teams, fostered a culture of excellence, and managed change effectively in fast-paced environments.
How to prepare for a job interview at HARRIS HILL
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous leadership roles in social care or similar sectors. Highlight specific examples where you successfully led teams, managed change, and improved service delivery.
✨Understand Regulatory Standards
Familiarise yourself with the relevant regulatory frameworks such as CQC, Ofsted, and CIW. Be ready to explain how you've ensured compliance in past roles and how you plan to maintain high standards in this position.
✨Demonstrate a People-First Approach
Emphasise your commitment to person-centred care and inclusion. Share anecdotes that illustrate how you've prioritised the needs of individuals and fostered a supportive environment for both staff and service users.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Think about how you can align operational goals with the organisation's strategic priorities. Be ready to discuss your vision for driving innovation and service improvement while managing budgets effectively.