At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operational support and management within the National Probation Service.
- Company: Join the Ministry of Justice, dedicated to public service and community safety.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous annual leave, and extensive training opportunities.
- Other info: Hybrid working options available; must be prepared for a presentation during the interview.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Significant middle management experience and strong relationship management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 53000 € per year.
General Information
Salary: £48,305 - £52,935
Working Pattern: Full Time, Part Time, Part Time/Job Share
Vacancy Approach: External
Location: Exeter
Region: South West
Closing Date: 08-Sep-2025
Business Unit: PDU Devon and Torbay (2021)
Post Type: Permanent
Civil Service Grade: Other
Number of jobs available: 1
Reserve List: 12 Months
Job ID: 9096
Descriptions & requirements
Overview of the job
Working at the direction of the Head of Operational Function the post holder will be deployed to a variety of roles in order to provide strategic support.
Summary
To support the Head of LDU Cluster providing management and leadership within the National Probation Service (NPS) Local Delivery Unit (LDU).
To represent the Head of LDU Cluster with external agencies/stakeholders and staff as appropriate.
The post holder must ad to all policies in respect of the sensitive/confidential nature of the information handled whilst working in this position. May be required to participate in out of hours on call rota.
Responsibilities, Activities & Duties
- Cluster operational lead on caseload segmentation issues such as Child Sexual Exploitation, Guns and Gangs, Integrated Offender Management etc.
- Operational support to the Head of Cluster within relevant Probation Instruction criteria and rules such as Recall, High Risk of Serious Harm Case Transfers, etc.
- Providing support to the Head of Cluster within the relevant Probation Instruction criteria and rules such as, grievance, discipline, capability, complaints, etc.
- Responsible for the professional development of cluster staff
- Responsible for developing and deploying the Cluster Training Needs Analysis
- Ensure effective cluster employee recruitment and induction
- Act as cluster lead for performance & quality
- Act as cluster lead for audits and inspections
- Operational support to the Head of Cluster in completing reviews and delivery of action plans such as Domestic Homicides, Serious Further Reviews, Serious Case Reviews, etc.
- Responsible for the management of the Business Manager and the administrative support functions within the cluster
- Under the guidance of the Head of LDU Cluster; represent the NPS in local strategic partnerships and ensure appropriate representation within wider partnership frameworks in line with statutory responsibilities and operational policy
- Participate in the Multi Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) locally in conjunction with other responsible authorities including the chairing of MAPPA level 3 meetings
- In the absence of the Head of LDU Cluster to make decisions and provide advice on the management of offenders where senior management authorisation or involvement is necessary e.g. authorising the recall of offenders to prison
- Operational support to the Head of cluster in the management of complaints within the cluster and direct involvement in complaint resolution where necessary
- Under the guidance of the Head of LDU Cluster to take the lead on specific divisional or cluster projects/portfolios including Equality and Diversity, Reward and Recognition, etc.
- Operational support to the Head of cluster in cluster compliance with Health and Safety legislation.
- Senior Management responsibility for estates, buildings and maintenance activities within the cluster
- Demonstrate pro-social modelling skills by consistently reinforcing pro-social behaviour and attitudes and challenging anti-social behaviour and attitudes
- Carry out safeguarding children and safeguarding adult duties in accordance with the NPS statutory responsibilities and agency policies
- Work within the aims and values of NPS and HMPPS
The duties/responsibilities listed above describe the post at present and are not exhaustive. The job holder is expected to accept reasonable alterations and additional tasks of a similar level that may be necessary. Significant adjustments may require re-examination under job evaluation and shall be discussed in the first instance with the job holder.
Additional Information
A presentation will be required during the interview stage. All qualifying candidates will receive information on the presentation to the interview stage.
Essential Experience
Significant experience at middle manager level, including the management of staff
Experience of monitoring performance in area of responsibility against predetermined targets, setting local targets and effecting necessary improvements
Experience of budgetary control incl. procurement
Experience of managing relationships incl. working with key local agencies and stakeholders
Evidence of preparing high level written reports to a good standard
Working Arrangements & Further Information
The MoJ offers Hybrid Working arrangements w business need allows. This is an informal, non-contractual form of flexible working that blends working from your base location, different MoJ sites and / or from home. Some roles will not be suitable for Hybrid Working. Arrangements will be discussed and agreed with the successful candidate(s).
For nationally advertised roles, the successful candidate(s) will be appointed to a MoJ office location, which may include their nearest Justice Collaboration Centre or Justice Satellite Office. This will be discussed and agreed on the completion of pre-employment checks.
Some of MoJ’s terms and conditions of service are changing as part of Civil Service reform. The changes will apply to staff joining MoJ who are new to the Civil Service.
Standard full time working hours are 37 hours per week excluding breaks which are unpaid. HMPPS welcomes part-time, flexible and job-sharing working patterns, and they will be considered in accordance with the HMPPS’ Flexible Working policy.
Benefits
The MoJ offers a range of benefits:
- Annual Leave: 25 days on appointment, rising to 30 days after five years plus public holidays (pro-rata for part-time).
- Pension: Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) through GMPF. Details at www.gmpf.org.uk.
- Training: Extensive training and development opportunities.
- Networks: Employee networks for minority groups and allies.
- Eligibility: All candidates subject to security and identity checks prior to taking up post.
- Support: Family-friendly policies, flexible benefits, childcare support guidance, paid parental leave, and eye-care provisions.
Working for the Civil Service
The Civil Service Code sets out standards of behaviour. We recruit on merit in line with Civil Service recruitment principles.
Disability support: Reasonable adjustments available; interview offered to disabled candidates who meet minimum criteria.
Diversity & Inclusion
The Civil Service is committed to diversity and inclusion and to attracting and retaining talent from all backgrounds.
A Great Place to Work for Veterans
The government’s veteran initiatives include a guaranteed interview scheme for eligible former service personnel. Details at gov.uk.
Redeployment Interview Scheme
Redeployment opportunities are explored before redundancies where possible.
Civil Service Nationality Rules
Details of eligible nationalities and requirements are provided in official guidance. Further information at gov.uk.
Reserve list
A reserve list may be held for up to 12 months for additional appointments.
Contact Information
MoJ: 0345 241 5359 (Mon-Fri 8am-6pm) or moj-recruitment-vetting-enquiries@resourcing.soprasteria.co.uk. Please quote job reference 9096.
HMPPS: 0345 241 5358 (Mon-Fri 8am-6pm) or moj-recruitment-vetting-enquiries@resourcing.soprasteria.co.uk. Please quote job reference 9096.
Louise.arscott@justice.gov.uk
Senior Operational Support Manager - Permanent - Devon & Torbay - 1 FTE in Exeter employer: HM Prison & Probation Service
The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional development. With flexible working arrangements, extensive training opportunities, and a commitment to diversity, MoJ fosters an environment where staff can thrive while making a meaningful impact in the community. Located in the picturesque Devon & Torbay region, employees enjoy a balanced lifestyle alongside their rewarding careers in public service.
Contact Detail:
HM Prison & Probation Service Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Operational Support Manager - Permanent - Devon & Torbay - 1 FTE in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the National Probation Service's policies and procedures. Understanding the operational framework will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of the NPS or similar organisations. They can provide valuable insights into the role and the organisational culture, which can be beneficial during your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the presentation component of the interview by practising how to convey complex information clearly and concisely. This is crucial for demonstrating your communication skills and ability to lead effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current issues related to probation services, such as trends in offender management and community safety. Being knowledgeable about these topics will show your passion for the field and readiness for the challenges of the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Operational Support Manager - Permanent - Devon & Torbay - 1 FTE in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially in middle management and operational support roles. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage staff, monitor performance, and handle budgetary control.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your understanding of the role and the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Emphasise your experience with stakeholder management and your ability to prepare high-level written reports.
Prepare for the Presentation:Since a presentation is required during the interview stage, start thinking about how you can effectively communicate your ideas. Focus on your leadership skills and how you would approach the responsibilities of the role.
Highlight Relevant Skills:In your application, be sure to mention any experience you have with compliance, audits, and inspections, as well as your ability to work within statutory responsibilities. This will show that you are well-prepared for the challenges of the position.
How to prepare for a job interview at HM Prison & Probation Service
✨Understand the Role Thoroughly
Before the interview, make sure you have a solid understanding of the responsibilities and requirements of the Senior Operational Support Manager position. Familiarise yourself with the National Probation Service's objectives and how this role contributes to them.
✨Prepare for the Presentation
Since a presentation is required during the interview, take time to prepare thoroughly. Choose a relevant topic that showcases your skills and experience, and practice delivering it clearly and confidently. Make sure to engage your audience and anticipate questions.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Highlight your significant experience at the middle management level, particularly in managing staff and performance. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led teams and improved performance against targets.
✨Demonstrate Relationship Management Skills
This role involves working with various stakeholders and local agencies. Prepare examples that illustrate your ability to build and maintain effective relationships, resolve conflicts, and collaborate on projects. This will show your capability to represent the Head of LDU Cluster effectively.
