Head of Operations (Children's Residential Services)
Salary: 65,000 + Bonus & Benefits
Location: Confidential - South of England
Sector: Children's Residential Care
Location: London
Working Week: In Home expectation 2 days per week the remainder from home.
Are you an experienced leader in children's residential services with a proven track record of driving quality, safeguarding, and operational success?
A confidential and well-established provider of therapeutic children's homes is seeking a skilled and visionary
Head of Operations
to lead and support multiple homes as the organisation enters an exciting growth phase.
This is a unique opportunity to join a mission-driven organisation that delivers warm, welcoming, and trauma-informed care for children with emotional and behavioural difficulties.
About the Role
Reporting directly to the Director and Responsible Individual, the
Head of Operations
will hold strategic oversight and operational responsibility for multiple residential children's homes.
You will play a key role in leading service improvement, growing the business sustainably, and maintaining full compliance with all regulatory standards. You will also be instrumental in developing a high-performing team culture that delivers outstanding outcomes for children.
Key Responsibilities
Lead, inspire, and support Registered Managers across all homes
Ensure full compliance with Ofsted regulations and quality frameworks
Drive business growth and develop new services in line with the company vision
Maintain and improve quality assurance systems across all provisions
Build and sustain relationships with local authorities and key partners
Monitor performance against KPIs, safeguarding requirements, and care standards
Support with inspections, audits, and strategic improvement planning
Ensure homes are safe, nurturing, and outcome-focused environments
Drive performance through coaching, supervision, and development of senior staff
The Ideal Candidate
Strong leadership experience within children's residential care
Consistent history of achieving
Good
or
Outstanding
Ofsted ratings
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership & Management (Children's Residential Services) - essential
Social Work qualification or equivalent - desirable
In-depth knowledge of Children's Homes Regulations and safeguarding practices
Experience leading multi-site operations and/or service expansions
Skilled in managing change, staff development, and strategic planning
Commercially aware with sound financial oversight capabilities
Why Join Us?
65,000 annual salary
Bonus scheme and competitive benefits package
Play a key role in shaping and expanding a high-quality care provider
Be part of a values-driven, child-focused organisation
Autonomy and support to lead meaningful change
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent