At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the delivery of trauma-informed services and oversee staff operations.
- Company: Survivors in Transition, dedicated to supporting survivors of sexual violence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days holiday, health cover, and wellbeing benefits.
- Other info: Join a compassionate team in a fast-paced, rewarding environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of survivors while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field and 5+ years in service management required.
The predicted salary is between 32000 - 36000 € per year.
At Survivors in Transition, we provide specialist trauma-informed support to survivors of sexual violence and abuse across Suffolk and the wider East of England. We are seeking a skilled, compassionate, and operationally capable Deputy Service Manager to support the day-to-day delivery of high-quality survivor services during a period of continued growth and development.
This is a senior operational role supporting the Service Manager and wider leadership team to ensure services are safe, effective, responsive, and aligned with trauma-informed principles. You will play a key role in staff support, case oversight, safeguarding, performance monitoring, and service coordination.
The role would suit someone with experience in sexual violence, domestic abuse, mental health, safeguarding, social care, or other trauma-related services, who is confident balancing operational management with survivor-centred practice.
Key responsibilities will include:
- supporting the operational management of frontline services
- providing day-to-day supervision and guidance to staff and subcontracted therapists
- assisting with safeguarding oversight, risk management, and complex case discussions
- monitoring service delivery, KPIs, waiting lists, and outcomes
- supporting quality assurance, audits, and compliance processes
- helping embed trauma-informed and survivor-led practice across the organisation
- assisting with resource coordination, service cover, and operational problem solving
- supporting partnership working with external agencies and stakeholders
- contributing to service development and continuous improvement
Essential experience and skills:
You will hold an undergraduate degree in a relevant field such as Counselling, Psychotherapy, Psychology, Mental Health, or Social Care or equivalent professional qualification, along with at least five years’ experience in service or operations management. You’ll bring strong safeguarding knowledge, excellent leadership and communication skills, and a deep understanding of trauma-informed practice. You will be confident in operational efficiency, quality assurance, and resource management, with strong skills in data analysis and budget management. You will be able to work independently to drive operational improvements while maintaining empathy and professionalism in all interactions. Excellent IT skills, advanced organisational ability, and a collaborative, non-judgmental approach are essential - as is a sense of humour and resilience when working in a fast-paced, emotionally demanding environment. A full, clean driving licence preferred.
We will offer you:
- a competitive salary banding of £32,000- £36,000 per annum (depending on experience)
- holiday: 25 days annual leave, plus your birthday off and bank holidays
- pension scheme, health cover, and additional wellbeing benefits.
This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.
How to apply:
Please complete the Application Form (word) and email to gillian.colchester@survivorsintransition.co.uk
Closing date: 12 pm, 29 May 2026. Interview date: week commencing 1 June 2026.
Deputy Service Manager in Ipswich employer: Suffolk Jobs Direct
At Survivors in Transition, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to supporting our staff as they provide vital services to survivors of trauma. Our Ipswich location offers a collaborative and compassionate work culture, with opportunities for professional growth through training and development in trauma-informed practices. We value the well-being of our employees, providing competitive salaries, generous leave policies, and a supportive environment that fosters resilience and teamwork.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Service Manager in Ipswich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the field, attend relevant events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and understanding their values. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their mission, especially around trauma-informed practices. Show them you’re not just a fit on paper but also in spirit!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, but keep it natural. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, especially when discussing your past experiences in service management and safeguarding.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A simple thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Deputy Service Manager position!
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Service Manager in Ipswich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Deputy Service Manager. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t just list your qualifications; demonstrate how your skills in safeguarding, operational management, and trauma-informed practice make you a perfect fit for our team. We want to see real examples!
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through! We value empathy and a sense of humour, so don’t be afraid to show us who you are in your application. It’s important to connect on a human level.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, the best way to apply is through our website. It ensures your application gets to the right place and helps us keep track of everything. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk Jobs Direct
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the core values and mission of Survivors in Transition. Familiarise yourself with trauma-informed practices and how they apply to the role of Deputy Service Manager. This will show your genuine interest and commitment to the organisation's goals.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that highlight your operational management skills, particularly in trauma-related services. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully supported staff, managed complex cases, and ensured compliance with safeguarding protocols.
✨Demonstrate Empathy and Leadership
During the interview, convey your ability to lead with compassion. Share instances where you've balanced operational efficiency with a survivor-centred approach. This is crucial for a role that requires both strong leadership and a deep understanding of the emotional demands involved.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions about the organisation's future plans, challenges they face, and how the Deputy Service Manager can contribute to their growth. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role aligns with your values and career aspirations.
