At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage employment services in Northern Ireland, ensuring high standards and alignment with Mencap values.
- Company: Mencap is dedicated to supporting individuals with learning disabilities through high-quality, flexible services.
- Benefits: Enjoy 32 days holiday, pension contributions, employee assistance, and discounts at shops.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on lives while growing personally and professionally in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in people management and knowledge of adult social care services are essential.
- Other info: This is a fixed-term role until March 2026, with potential for extension based on funding.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity for a 30-hour Area Operations Manager (AOM) for our Employment and Personal Development (EPD) Team. This is a fixed-term post until March 2026, with a possible extension pending funding. As the AOM, you will oversee all employment services in Northern Ireland. You will be responsible for the success and development of our teams, funding contracts, and stakeholder partnerships. The AOM will lead the EPD Service Managers to ensure services are delivered to a high standard, are safe, and align with Mencap values. Through effective leadership and judgment, the AOM will set key priorities and actions that align with the overarching Mencap strategy. The role involves managing systems and measurement tools to review key areas and achieve maximum results.
If you are ready for the next challenge in your career and want to make a direct impact on the lives of individuals with learning disabilities, you might be the right person to manage our established employment services in Northern Ireland.
Key Responsibilities:- Manage finances and resources
- Verify quality and practice
- Drive business development and growth
- Manage information systems
We seek someone enthusiastic, driven, and capable of influencing at all levels. You should demonstrate our values (Passionate, Inclusive, Brave, Positive, and Kind) and understand the rights of people with learning disabilities. Applicants should have people management experience, knowledge of adult social care services, and familiarity with current supported employment funding streams in Northern Ireland.
Alongside knowing your work makes a positive difference, you'll enjoy fair pay and a wide range of benefits as our employee:
- 32 days holiday (including bank holidays), increasing to 35 days with long service, plus the option to buy up to 10 additional days via our HolidayPlus scheme
- Service-related sick pay after 6 months
- Eligibility to join Mencap Pension Plan, with contributions matched up to 5%, plus auto-enrollment after three months
- Death in service cover up to 3 times salary and Income Protection of 50% salary after 26 weeks of long-term sickness
- Loans for various purposes after 6 months of employment
- Interest-free season ticket loans
- Discounts and cashback at high street shops and online via Mencap Extras
- Option to purchase a health cash plan for dental, glasses, and therapy
- 24/7 employee assistance program
- Quarterly awards and recognition through our YouRock program
- Access to training and development opportunities
*Terms and conditions apply based on the contract.
About Mencap: Strong leadership is vital to our success. We have developed Our Leadership Way, a leadership framework at Mencap. We seek leaders with potential to excel within this framework and are committed to developing your potential further. At Mencap, we partner with people with learning disabilities, providing high-quality, flexible services that support independence at home and in the community. Everyone seeks meaningful work. At Mencap, you will find purpose and opportunities for personal and professional growth. You will make new friends, be inspired, and reach your potential. We ask a lot, but you will gain so much in return. For us, it’s never just a job. In exchange for your dedication and passion, we offer meaningful work and a chance to make a real difference.
Area Operations Manager - Employment & Personal Development employer: Royal Mencap Society
Contact Detail:
Royal Mencap Society Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Area Operations Manager - Employment & Personal Development
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Mencap's values and mission. Understanding how they align with your own beliefs will help you articulate your passion for the role during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Mencap, especially those in leadership roles. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations for the Area Operations Manager position.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the current landscape of employment services in Northern Ireland, particularly regarding supported employment funding streams. This knowledge will demonstrate your commitment and preparedness for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing teams and driving business development. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led projects or initiatives that align with the responsibilities of the AOM role.
We think you need these skills to ace Area Operations Manager - Employment & Personal Development
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and expectations of the Area Operations Manager position. Highlight how your experience aligns with managing employment services and leading teams.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect relevant experience in people management, adult social care services, and knowledge of supported employment funding streams. Use specific examples that demonstrate your leadership skills and alignment with Mencap's values.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and your understanding of the impact on individuals with learning disabilities. Mention how your values resonate with Mencap’s mission and how you can contribute to their goals.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your documents for any spelling or grammatical errors. Ensure that your application is clear, concise, and professional, reflecting your attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal Mencap Society
✨Understand Mencap's Values
Before the interview, take some time to familiarise yourself with Mencap's core values: Passionate, Inclusive, Brave, Positive, and Kind. Be prepared to discuss how you embody these values in your work and how they align with your approach to leadership and team management.
✨Showcase Your People Management Experience
As an Area Operations Manager, you'll need to demonstrate strong people management skills. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams, resolved conflicts, or developed staff. Highlight any specific achievements that showcase your ability to inspire and motivate others.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Employment Services
Since the role involves overseeing employment services, it's crucial to have a solid understanding of current supported employment funding streams in Northern Ireland. Research relevant policies and be ready to discuss how you would manage and improve these services effectively.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving and decision-making skills. Think about potential challenges you might face in this role and how you would address them. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses clearly.