At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operational delivery and drive service excellence in health and social care.
- Company: Orchard Care Homes, a values-led organisation focused on high-quality care.
- Benefits: Full-time role with opportunities for professional growth and impactful work.
- Other info: Dynamic role with no two days the same, fostering a positive environment.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful difference in the lives of adults with complex needs.
- Qualifications: Experience in operational leadership within health or social care required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 41000 £ per year.
Location: The Hamlet, Hornbeam Park, Harrogate, HG2 8RE, United Kingdom
Employee Type: Full Time
Extraordinary People, Exceptional Care
Orchard Care Homes is a growing, values-led organisation dedicated to delivering high-quality, person-centred health and social care services. We are expanding our ReConnect portfolio and seeking an experienced Head of Commissioning Operations to lead operational delivery, drive service excellence, and support the development of new, innovative service models.
In this pivotal position, you will play a key leadership role in shaping and driving the performance, quality, and growth of our ReConnect services. You will be responsible for leading operational teams, overseeing commissioning requirements, and ensuring services are delivered safely, efficiently, and in line with regulatory and contractual standards. You will have the opportunity to lead new services, supporting adults with complex needs, where your impact will be visible and meaningful. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who understands the realities of complex care and is confident leading services where positive behaviour support, risk management, and person-centred practice are essential. No two days will be the same, and strong, visible leadership will be essential to creating safe, stable, and positive environments.
What is ReConnect? ReConnect is Orchard Care Homes’ award-winning model of dementia care, designed to help people living with dementia and mental health needs reconnect with the life they love. Our specialist communities are built around independence, engagement, and meaningful living — supporting every person to thrive. In addition to our dementia communities, we also operate two dedicated mental health services, further expanding our ability to provide high-quality, person-centred support across complex needs.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the operational strategy for ReConnect services, ensuring alignment with organisational goals.
- Build strong partnerships with local authorities, ICBs, NHS partners, commissioning bodies, families, professionals, and internal teams.
- Lead tender activity and new commissioning opportunities.
- Lead the mobilisation and development for new services and contracts.
- Embed positive behaviour support, risk management, and person-centred planning.
- Coach, develop, and support Registered Managers, Service Leads, and operational teams.
- Ensure services meet and exceed compliance with CQC regulations, quality frameworks, and contractual KPIs.
- Lead, support, and performance-manage staff to deliver high-quality care.
- Oversee operational budgets, rotas, resources, occupancy and performance KPIs/targets.
Role Requirements
- A Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care (or willingness to work towards).
- We are looking for a confident, forward-thinking operational leader who can balance strategic vision with hands-on delivery.
- You will be resilient, and values-led, with a strong background in complex residential care.
- Proven senior operational leadership experience in health or social care managing residential services for people with complex needs.
- Experience working with commissioned services (Local Authority and NHS pathways).
- Strong knowledge of CQC regulations, regulatory frameworks and health.
Head of Commissioning Operations employer: QUINTESSENTIAL BRANDS UK GROUP LTD
Orchard Care Homes is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and development of its staff, offering a supportive work culture where values-led leadership thrives. Located in the picturesque Hornbeam Park, Harrogate, employees benefit from a collaborative environment that fosters professional growth through hands-on leadership opportunities and innovative service models. With a commitment to delivering high-quality, person-centred care, Orchard Care Homes empowers its team to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those they serve.
Contact Details:
QUINTESSENTIAL BRANDS UK GROUP LTD Recruitment Team