Responsible Individual - Ofsted Residential Children's Homes
Location:
Remote (with travel across the South East)
Salary:
50,000 - 65,000 per year (including performance bonus)
Contract:
Full-time, Permanent
Schedule:
Monday to Friday
Lead with Purpose. Inspire Excellence. Transform Lives.
Are you ready to make a real difference in the lives of children and young people? We're looking for an experienced and visionary
Responsible Individual / Operations Manager
to drive excellence, champion safeguarding, and shape the future of residential childcare services across the South East.
This is a unique opportunity to combine strategic leadership with meaningful, hands-on influence. You'll provide direction, mentorship, and high-level oversight to ensure our homes deliver exceptional, child-focused care that consistently exceeds regulatory standards.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and support multiple residential children's homes through strategic guidance, operational oversight, and expert consultancy.
Ensure services meet and exceed Ofsted requirements and the Children's Homes Regulations 2015.
Coach, mentor, and empower Registered Managers to deliver outstanding, child-centred care.
Champion safeguarding excellence by embedding rigorous, accountable practices.
Guide homes through Ofsted inspections, achieving strong 'Good' and 'Outstanding' ratings.
Drive a culture of continuous improvement, professional development, and shared learning.
Oversee budgets, staffing structures, and resource allocation to ensure efficiency and sustainability.
Build trusted partnerships with local authorities, social workers, and regulatory bodies.
Lead staff development programmes to strengthen skills, confidence, and performance across teams.
About You
At least 3 years' senior leadership experience in children's residential care.
NVQ Level 5 Diploma in Leadership & Management for Residential Childcare (or commitment to achieving it).
In-depth knowledge of Ofsted inspection frameworks, safeguarding legislation, and Quality Standards.
Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
Proven track record of influencing practice and driving service improvement.
Full UK driving licence with flexibility to travel across the South East.
A deep commitment to ensuring children and young people receive the best possible care.
What We Offer
A leadership role where your impact creates lasting change for children and young people.
The chance to join a forward-thinking, child-focused organisation committed to excellence.
Unlimited paid holidays and full flexibility over your diary.
Paid mileage and subsidised travel.
A competitive salary package with performance-related bonus.
High-quality training, ongoing professional development, and clear progression pathways.
Benefits Package