At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a multi-agency team to deliver youth justice services and improve outcomes for young people.
- Company: Join Croydon Council, a major employer dedicated to community welfare and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive pay, generous leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on youth justice while working in a supportive and dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in youth justice or social care, with strong leadership and management skills required.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements available; commitment to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Operational Manager – Youth Justice Service – Croydon Council Permanent – 36 hours per week Hybrid working The Operational Manager is responsible for the development band and management of a multi-agency team to deliver youth justice services, to meet the key objectives of the Youth Justice Plan and statutory requirements of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998. The service area covers the Council\’s statutory responsibilities for children who offend. Court, Probation (transitions) and Custody, manage day-to-day operational activity of the team to prevent and reduce re-offending, improving outcomes for children involved in the criminal justice system, whilst ensuring victims are given the opportunity to have a say. You will lead, manage and motivate staff providing reflective supervisions, professional support and guidance. We are looking for an experienced and appropriately qualified professional that is able to demonstrate their knowledge and experience of working in youth justice service or with young people. You will need to have a knowledge of current practice and service development issues concerning young people who offend and their families. Ability to lead and manage in an operational area dealing with high risk and complexity in a way that delivers effective management of risk and vulnerability and produces good outcomes. Relevant management experience gained within a social care/criminal justice/ community safety field. Substantial practitioner experience in the Youth Justice System and experience of supervising staff/students/trainees, both in respect of direct work and in the promotion of professional development. You will be valued for your skills and expertise, supported by the team of experienced professionals, as well as the management at Croydon Council, one of the largest employers in the borough. Highly competitive compensation package 29-31 days (grade equivalent) annual leave in addition to Bank Holidays and option to purchase more A pension scheme with an average employer contribution of 20% Continuing Professional Development – genuine opportunities to grow, develop and specialise in your career Management development programmes Access to Employee Discount scheme with a range of programmes (Cycle Benefit Scheme, Retail Discounts and more) We promote flexible & hybrid working arrangements where possible to support a healthy work-life balance Full time 36 Hours To view the Operational Manager role profile please click here Croydon Council is an inclusive employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. Subject to business needs, we will be pleased to consider applications from candidates seeking flexible working arrangements and support hybrid working, whereby staff attend the workplace for part of their working week and work from home, or elsewhere, remotely for the rest of the time. As users of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the advertised role. Croydon council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all staff to share this commitment. The Successful candidate will be subject to a DBS check
Operations Manager / Director - Children Services (Permanent) employer: London Borough of Croydon
Contact Detail:
London Borough of Croydon Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Manager / Director - Children Services (Permanent)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Youth Justice Plan and the statutory requirements of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998. Understanding these frameworks will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role and its responsibilities.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals already working in youth justice services or related fields. Attend relevant workshops or seminars to connect with others in the industry, as personal recommendations can often give you an edge in the hiring process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples from your past experience that showcase your ability to manage high-risk situations and lead a multi-agency team. Highlighting your practical knowledge will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Croydon Council's current initiatives and challenges within the youth justice system. Being informed about their specific context will allow you to tailor your discussions and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Manager / Director - Children Services (Permanent)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in youth justice services or working with young people. Emphasise your management skills and any specific achievements that align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that addresses the key objectives of the Youth Justice Plan and your understanding of the statutory requirements. Use specific examples from your past experience to demonstrate how you can meet the needs of the role.
Showcase Leadership Skills: In your application, provide examples of how you have successfully led and motivated teams in high-risk environments. Highlight your ability to manage complexity and deliver positive outcomes for vulnerable individuals.
Highlight Professional Development: Mention any continuing professional development you have undertaken, especially in relation to youth justice or social care. This shows your commitment to staying updated on current practices and service development issues.
How to prepare for a job interview at London Borough of Croydon
✨Showcase Your Experience
Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in youth justice services or working with young people. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've managed teams and improved outcomes for children involved in the criminal justice system.
✨Understand the Legislation
Familiarise yourself with the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 and other relevant legislation. Demonstrating your knowledge of current practices and statutory requirements will show that you are well-prepared and serious about the role.
✨Emphasise Leadership Skills
As an Operations Manager, you'll need to lead and motivate a multi-agency team. Prepare to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully supervised staff and promoted professional development in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your ability to manage high-risk situations and complex cases. Think about past experiences where you've effectively managed risk and vulnerability, and be ready to share those stories.