At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and mentor teams to deliver exceptional care for children in residential settings.
- Company: Wilderness Way, a forward-thinking organisation in children's residential care.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous annual leave, health perks, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a culture of growth, collaboration, and respect in a dynamic work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while advancing your leadership career.
- Qualifications: 6+ years in children's residential care with leadership experience and relevant qualifications.
The predicted salary is between 46202 - 52100 £ per year.
Lead with Purpose. Deliver with Impact.
Are you an experienced leader in children’s residential care ready to take the next step in your career? At Wilderness Way, we’re expanding and looking for an Operations Manager to oversee a cluster of our children’s homes. This is a strategic leadership role for someone who understands the complexities of residential childcare and is passionate about delivering exceptional outcomes for children with challenging behaviours.
What You’ll Do
- Support and mentor Registered Managers to deliver high-quality, child-centred care.
- Oversee operational performance, compliance, and financial targets across multiple homes.
- Work with commissioning teams, social workers, and external agencies to ensure tailored care plans.
- Use data and insights to monitor service outcomes and identify areas for development.
- Embed our mission, vision, and values into every aspect of service delivery.
What We’re Looking For
- Essential: Minimum 6 years’ experience in children’s residential care, including 4 years in a leadership role.
- Qualified: Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health & Social Care and Children & Young People’s Services.
- Knowledgeable: Strong understanding of Ofsted regulations, safeguarding, and child protection legislation.
- Operationally Skilled: Proven ability to manage budgets, implement policies, and meet strategic goals.
- Inspirational Leader: A collaborative and empowering approach to coaching and mentoring teams.
- Flexible & Mobile: Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel across services.
Why Join Us?
- Salary: Up to £71,219 (dependent on experience and qualifications)
- Annual Leave: 35 days, with additional days awarded at 2 and 5 years of service
- Workweek: 40 hours (Mon-Fri, 9am–5pm) with occasional flexibility
- Health & Wellbeing: Private Medical Insurance, Medicash plan, 24/7 GP access, cashback on optical/dental, gym discounts
- Recognition & Rewards: £1,000 referral bonuses, monthly Wilderness Heroes awards
- Financial Security: Pension contributions, life assurance (2x salary)
- Perks: High street savings, leisure discounts, and tailored local offers
A Culture of Growth
- Career development through coaching, qualifications, and progression pathways
- A forward-thinking organisation leading in therapeutic and assessment-based residential care
- A workplace built on Collaboration, Adaptability, Respect, and Empathy
All roles at Wilderness Way are subject to Safer Recruitment checks, including references, an enhanced DBS, and online/social media screening for successful candidates. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expect all staff to share this commitment. We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of background, experience, or protected characteristics.
Operations Manager - Childrens Residential Care in Carlisle employer: WILDERNESS WAY
Wilderness Way is an exceptional employer for those passionate about children's residential care, offering a supportive and collaborative work culture that prioritises employee growth and wellbeing. With competitive salaries, generous annual leave, and comprehensive health benefits, we empower our Operations Managers to lead with purpose and make a meaningful impact in the lives of children. Join us in a forward-thinking organisation that values respect, empathy, and professional development, all while working in a dynamic environment dedicated to delivering high-quality, child-centred care.
