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- Tasks: Lead and coordinate operations at Europe's largest immigration removal centre, ensuring safety and efficiency.
- Company: Heathrow Immigration Removal Centre, committed to dignity and respect for all residents.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership development, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Why this job: Be an authentic leader in a high-profile environment, shaping positive experiences for residents.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in detention environments, managing large teams, and strong budget management skills.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on operational excellence and community engagement.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Heathrow Immigration Removal Centre, Colnbrook Bypass, Harmondsworth, West Drayton UB7 0FX. Please note, this role is site-based; hybrid or remote working options are not available.
Heathrow IRC combines Colnbrook and Harmondsworth removals centres under one management structure, making it the largest immigration removal centre in Europe, with a capacity of 965 residents. We are responsible for delivering the end-to-end management of all residents' needs until the outcome of their case is decided by the Home Office - removal or temporary admission into the UK. This is balanced against the competing pressures of safety, security, welfare needs, and regime. Our aim is to treat those in our care with dignity, decency, and respect, delivering a safe and healthy establishment which stands up to public scrutiny. We operate in a high risk, high profile, and heavily regulated environment engaging with numerous stakeholders including the Home Office and Medical Service delivery partners.
In delivering our services, we help residents understand what happens next, provide an environment for them to engage in activities relevant to them, and create an environment in which they can reach out for support whilst building positive staff-resident relationships. Our environment is one where positive behaviour is promoted in order to support the welfare of those in our care, and our staff.
Job Overview
We’re looking for an authentic leader with proven experience achieving operational excellence within a detention or custodial environment. Someone who can create and embed a culture which recognises and respects individuals, celebrates diversity, and is based on safety and security for everyone. You will provide leadership, coaching, and support to staff in order to maximise the efficient and effective operation of the Centre, in line with contractual and budgetary requirements.
Main Duties
- Lead and coordinate multiple units within the Centre, ensuring resources—whether personnel, financial, or assets - are optimised to meet strategic objectives and standards.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with clients and stakeholders, fostering long-term partnerships through effective communication.
- Monitor operational performance, manage financial forecasts, work-in-progress, and debt levels, and identify initiatives to enhance efficiency and service delivery.
- Develop, implement, and monitor strategies that align with business goals and deliver key performance targets.
- Manage planning and budgeting processes, ensuring accuracy in financial forecasts, resource allocation, and timeline adherence.
- Establish best practices for resource management, personnel development, and continuous process improvements.
What we are looking for
- Proven leadership experience within Immigration detention or custodial environments at a director level.
- Experience managing large teams (typically 200+ staff), including Heads of Function, with a focus on performance and development.
- Strong commercial awareness and a clear understanding of contractual compliance.
- Demonstrable experience in budget management, particularly relating to operational staffing costs.
- Level 6 qualification such as a Degree Apprenticeship, Bachelor's Degree (BA/BSc), or equivalent professional qualification.
Please note that all employment offers are subject to security clearance and thorough background checks, including verification of citizenship status, financial history, and criminal records.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a British citizen, EU citizen with settled status, or hold Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) from a Commonwealth country.
- Resided in the UK for at least the past three years, with limited travel outside the UK.
- No significant criminal record, bankruptcy history, or adverse social media activity.
Centre Director - Immigration Removal Centre (IRC) employer: Mitie
Contact Detail:
Mitie Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Centre Director - Immigration Removal Centre (IRC)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the immigration or custodial sectors. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know. Attend industry events or join relevant online groups to get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the Centre's operations and values. We want to see that you understand the importance of safety, security, and respect for individuals. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've managed large teams and improved operational efficiency. We love hearing about real-life scenarios where you’ve made a difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for passionate candidates who can help us create a positive environment for residents.
We think you need these skills to ace Centre Director - Immigration Removal Centre (IRC)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Centre Director role. Highlight your leadership experience in detention or custodial environments, and don’t forget to mention any relevant qualifications or achievements that align with our mission at StudySmarter.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: We want to see how you’ve successfully led large teams before. Share specific examples of how you’ve managed performance and development, and how you’ve built strong relationships with stakeholders. This will help us understand your approach to creating a positive culture.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at StudySmarter.
How to prepare for a job interview at Mitie
✨Know the Centre Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you research Heathrow Immigration Removal Centre thoroughly. Understand its operations, values, and the challenges it faces. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you articulate how your experience aligns with their mission of treating residents with dignity and respect.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Centre Director, your leadership style is crucial. Prepare examples that demonstrate your ability to lead large teams effectively, manage performance, and foster a positive culture. Think about specific situations where you’ve successfully navigated challenges in a custodial environment and how you can apply those experiences here.
✨Understand Stakeholder Engagement
Given the role's emphasis on building relationships with various stakeholders, be ready to discuss your experience in this area. Highlight instances where you've successfully communicated and collaborated with external partners, such as the Home Office or medical service providers, to achieve operational goals.
✨Prepare for Financial Discussions
Budget management is a key part of this role, so brush up on your financial acumen. Be prepared to discuss your experience with financial forecasting, resource allocation, and how you've previously managed operational costs. Showing confidence in these areas will reassure them of your capability to handle the Centre's financial responsibilities.
