Are you a passionate leader ready to drive impact in employability services?
We’re looking for a dynamic Operations Manager to lead, performance-manage, and grow our Connect to Work contract in Medway and Gravesham. This is a full-time role (35 hours/week) for someone with at least 3 years’ managerial experience in the employability sector.
You’ll be at the heart of our senior leadership team, championing high-quality delivery, IPS fidelity, and strong community partnerships. If you thrive in fast-paced environments and love turning strategy into results, this is your next challenge.
What You’ll Do:
- Lead operational management of IAG, pre-employability, and employability services.
- Ensure IPS standards are met through coaching, audits, and quality assurance.
- Drive performance management, KPI monitoring, and contractual compliance.
- Contribute to budgets, bids, and business growth opportunities.
- Line-manage a high-performing team, fostering professional development and accountability.
- Strengthen employer engagement and deliver job fairs, workshops, and inclusive recruitment initiatives.
- Build and maintain partnerships across prisons, NHS trusts, local authorities, and community providers.
- Oversee caseloads and workflows to ensure efficient delivery and strong participant outcomes.
- Uphold safeguarding, compliance, and governance, keeping services safe, effective, and accountable.
What We’re Looking For:
- Proven leadership in employability, skills, IPS, or community services, with at least 3 years managerial experience.
- Expertise in performance management, quality assurance, and contract delivery.
- Strong relationship-builder with employers, partners, and stakeholders.
- Highly organised, analytical, and able to juggle multiple priorities.
- Committed to empowering individuals into sustainable employment.
- Knowledge of IAG, ESFA/DWP compliance, apprenticeships, and local economic strategies.
- Desirable: experience in social enterprise or understanding of mental health, disabilities, and recovery services.
You’ll have the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives while working in a supportive, collaborative, and forward-thinking environment.
This is an opportunity to lead a team that values impact, innovation, and excellence, and to champion employment success across the community.
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Operations Manager (Medway & Gravesham) employer: The Forward Trust
The Forward Trust is an exceptional employer dedicated to empowering individuals on their recovery journey from addiction, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment in Rugby. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, we provide flexible working options, comprehensive training and development opportunities, and generous benefits including enhanced family support and wellbeing days. Join us to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a fulfilling career that values your contributions and promotes personal growth.
