Job Description

Perfect -- here's a

tailored job description

for an

Operations Manager - Children's Home (EBD)

, specifically focused on services supporting children and young people with

Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties (EBD)

.

Job Title:

Operations Manager - Children's Home (EBD)

Reports to:

Responsible Individual / Director

Location:

[Specify Location]

Salary:

[Insert Range]

Hours:

Full Time (typically 37-40 hours per week, with on-call responsibilities)

Purpose of the Role

The Operations Manager is responsible for the strategic and operational leadership of one or more EBD children's homes, ensuring each home provides high-quality, trauma-informed care that meets the individual needs of children and young people. The post-holder will oversee compliance with Ofsted regulations, support and supervise Registered Managers, and drive continuous improvement in practice, outcomes, and safeguarding.

Key Responsibilities1. Leadership and Management

Provide strong, visible leadership across multiple EBD homes, promoting a culture of child-centred, therapeutic practice. Support and develop Registered Managers, ensuring they maintain compliance and achieve "Good" or "Outstanding" Ofsted ratings. Ensure consistent implementation of policies, procedures, and operational standards across all homes. Monitor staff performance, staffing levels, and workforce stability to maintain a safe and nurturing environment.

2. Quality Assurance and Compliance

Ensure all homes comply with the Children's Homes (England) Regulations 2015 and Quality Standards. Conduct regular quality audits, reviews, and monitoring visits; produce written reports and improvement plans. Analyse performance data, incidents, and feedback to identify trends and areas for development. Lead on the implementation of Ofsted inspection recommendations and internal action plans.

3. Safeguarding and Risk Management

Act as a senior safeguarding lead, ensuring that all safeguarding concerns are managed effectively and in line with legislation and local safeguarding procedures. Oversee risk assessments, placement impact assessments, and behaviour management plans to ensure they are robust and regularly reviewed. Champion a culture of safety, openness, and learning from incidents.

4. Therapeutic and Behavioural Practice

Promote trauma-informed, attachment-aware approaches throughout the homes. Support Registered Managers and staff to develop consistent, positive behaviour management strategies that focus on emotional regulation and relationship-based care. Work with therapeutic professionals to integrate psychological support and care planning effectively.

5. Financial and Resource Management

Manage operational budgets and ensure homes operate within agreed financial parameters. Monitor occupancy levels, referral activity, and fee negotiations with commissioning authorities. Contribute to strategic planning, service development, and growth opportunities.

6. Partnership and Communication

Develop and maintain positive relationships with local authorities, commissioners, regulators, and external agencies. Represent the organisation professionally in meetings, inspections, and partnership forums. Ensure open and effective communication across all teams and services.

7. Staff Development and Supervision

Support the professional development and supervision of Registered Managers and senior staff. Ensure all staff have access to appropriate training, including safeguarding, trauma-informed care, and behaviour management. Promote reflective practice, professional curiosity, and continuous improvement across the workforce.

Person SpecificationEssential:

Substantial experience in managing or overseeing EBD children's homes & Ofsted Supported Accomodation. In-depth knowledge of trauma-informed practice and positive behaviour support. Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare (or equivalent). Strong understanding of the Children's Homes Regulations 2015 and Ofsted inspection framework. Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop multidisciplinary teams. Excellent organisational, communication, and decision-making skills. Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people.

Desirable:

Previous experience as a Registered Manager or Regsitered Service Manager Experience of therapeutic or clinical input within residential care settings. Budget management and service development experience. Full UK driving licence.

Core Competencies

Child-Centred Leadership:

Ensures all decisions prioritise the best interests of the child.

Trauma-Informed Practice:

Understands and applies trauma theory to daily operations and behaviour management.

Resilience and Integrity:

Handles complex challenges calmly and professionally.

Continuous Improvement:

Seeks innovation and best practice to raise standards.

Collaboration:

Builds strong, trusting relationships across internal and external stakeholders.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 12 months

Pay: From 50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Free parking On-site parking Work from home
Work Location: In person