Job Description

About the Company
Sunnyside Rural Trust is a thriving, values-driven horticultural charity supporting young people and adults with learning difficulties across West Hertfordshire. Through nature-based work, social-enterprise activities, and supportive learning environments, we help people to grow skills, confidence, and independence.
We are looking for an inspirational and compassionate leader to join our Senior Leadership Team as our Director of Care and Community Opportunities, a pivotal role shaping the future of our services and championing the trainee experience across all sites.
Why should I apply for this Director of Care and Services job?

• Be part of a welcoming, inclusive organisation that genuinely changes lives.
• Work in beautiful, nature-rich environments with a passionate and dedicated team.
• Shape the future direction of our charity as part of the Senior Leadership Team.
• Lead innovative, meaningful programmes that help trainees thrive
• Company pension scheme
• Blue Light Card

What does this Director of Care and Services job involve?

• Provide visible, collaborative leadership rooted in respect, inclusion, and empowerment.
• Line-manage and develop our Site Managers and Project Workers, ensuring consistently high-quality, person-centred delivery.
• Work in partnership with other Directors to ensure joined-up planning, shared problem-solving and a seamless trainee experience across the Trust.
• Develop and drive a referral and growth strategy, strengthening our sustainability and widening access to our unique programmes.
• Act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead, ensuring best practice across the organisation.
• Embed health & safety compliance across all sites in collaboration with relevant colleagues.
• Champion trainee voice, wellbeing, and celebration of achievements.

Am I the right person for this Director of Care and Services job?

• Significant senior leadership experience in learning disability, social care, education, or day-service environments.
• Educated to degree level - experience is more important than qualifications.
• Confidence in leading multi-site teams and shaping quality, culture, and performance.
• Experience building partnerships, managing referrals, and supporting organisational growth.
• Deep understanding of safeguarding, inspection frameworks and best practice in supporting adults with learning differences, autism, or mild mental health needs.
• Strong communication, problem-solving and planning skills.
• A values-led, person-centred approach, you will put people first and lead with empathy.
• Experience in horticulture, outdoor learning or social enterprise is welcome but not essential, what matters most is your commitment to empowering the people we support.

Skills Required