Job Description

Job Title: Service Manager (Fixed Term - 12 Months)

Location:

Ashley Court, Chawleigh, Devon, EX18 7EX

Reports to:

Head of Operations

Hours:

Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:30pm, plus participation in an on-call rota

Salary:

40,944 per annum

About The Amber Foundation

The Amber Foundation provides 24/7 supported accommodation for young adults aged 18 to 30 who are homeless or at risk of homelessness and often facing multiple challenges, including mental health difficulties, substance misuse, unemployment, lack of education, and involvement with the criminal justice system.

Our structured residential programme offers a holistic blend of personal development, employability support, and well-being activities to help young people build confidence, rediscover their potential, and move forward into sustainable housing, education, training, or employment.

Role Overview

As Service Manager, you will oversee the day-to-day operations at our Ashley Court centre, ensuring high standards of service delivery and strong leadership for the staff team. You will be responsible for managing referrals, assessing the suitability of applicants, maintaining occupancy levels in line with budget targets, supporting staff performance, and ensuring the centre delivers high-quality, safe, and person-centred support for all residents.

This role requires excellent organisational, communication and people management skills, a commitment to safeguarding, and the ability to create a supportive and inspiring environment for both staff and young people.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Service Delivery

Lead and support a dedicated team to deliver high-quality, person-centred services aligned with Amber's mission and values. Foster a positive, inclusive, and empowering environment where young people can thrive. Ensure delivery of Amber's residential programme is consistent, impactful, and responsive to individual needs.

Referrals, Assessments & Occupancy Management

Manage all incoming referrals to the centre, ensuring timely and professional handling. Conduct thorough needs and risk assessments with prospective residents to determine suitability for the service. Develop and maintain positive relationships with referral partners, commissioners, and external agencies. Maintain full occupancy in line with annual budgeted targets by managing referral pipelines and outreach. Identify new referral sources and maximise referral opportunities to meet service demand.

Staff Management & Support

Provide regular one-to-one supervision to team members, supporting their growth, well-being, and performance. Complete probation reviews for all new staff and manage any performance issues promptly and effectively. Lead on staff recruitment, induction, and training to ensure a high-performing, motivated, and well-supported team. Facilitate regular team meetings and create a collaborative team culture rooted in Amber's values.

Safeguarding, Compliance & Quality Assurance

Act as the safeguarding lead within the centre, ensuring the safety and welfare of all young people and staff. Ensure all practices comply with statutory, contractual, and internal safeguarding and health & safety procedures. Maintain and review accurate records, including assessments, support plans, and incident reports. Monitor service quality, identify areas for improvement, and implement corrective action as needed.

Maintenance & Health and Safety

Take responsibility for the ongoing maintenance, cleanliness, and presentation of the building, grounds, and facilities. Ensure that all health and safety procedures are followed and that regular building checks, risk assessments, and fire drills are completed and documented. Liaise with external contractors and internal teams to resolve maintenance issues promptly and cost-effectively. Maintain compliance with environmental health, fire safety, and other statutory requirements. Ensure that the premises are safe, secure, and welcoming for residents, staff, and visitors.

Financial Oversight

Take overall responsibility for the centre's financial performance, including budget management and cost control. Oversee resident-related income such as Housing Benefit and ensure timely collection of rent. Authorise expenditure, manage petty cash, and ensure adherence to Amber's financial procedures, including CAPEX and credit card use.

Stakeholder Engagement & Fundraising Support

Represent Amber positively in dealings with local authorities, commissioners, referral agencies, and community partners. Support the fundraising team with case studies, impact data, and facilitating funder visits to the centre. Contribute to funding proposals and reports as required.
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Person Specification

Essential

Proven experience managing services in housing, social care, or a related field. Strong team leadership skills, with the ability to supervise, support, and motivate staff. Experience in performance management and conducting probation reviews. Confidence in conducting risk and needs assessments for vulnerable individuals. Ability to build and maintain effective partnerships with external agencies. Excellent organisational, communication, and problem-solving abilities. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and general IT systems. Full UK driving licence and own vehicle. Strong commitment to safeguarding and inclusive, person-centred practice.

Desirable

Degree or professional qualification in a relevant field (e.g. management, social care, housing). Experience supporting disadvantaged or vulnerable young people. Experience in budget and occupancy management. Knowledge of regional referral networks and statutory service providers.

Key Attributes

Resilient, calm, and confident in managing challenging situations Passionate about making a meaningful difference in young people's lives Open-minded, inclusive, and person-centred in approach Decisive and solution-focused, with a strong sense of accountability Motivational leadership style that empowers others Flexible and adaptable to the dynamic needs of the service

Benefits

40,944.00 annual salary Casual dress policy Company pension Private medical insurance Life insurance Sick pay Free or discounted meals On-site parking Blue Light Discount Card

Schedule

Full-time, Monday to Friday (9am to 5.30pm) Fixed-term contract: 12 months On-call rota participation required (Allowance Paid) On-site role (not remote) November 2025 start date

Safeguarding Statement

Amber is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All applicants must be willing to undergo an enhanced DBS check and comply with Amber's safeguarding policies and procedures.

Job Types: Full-time, Temporary
Contract length: 12 months

Pay: 40,944.00 per year

Benefits:

Casual dress Company pension Discounted or free food Free parking Health & wellbeing programme Life insurance On-site parking Private dental insurance Private medical insurance Sick pay
Schedule:

Day shift Monday to Friday
Application question(s):

Are you aware that this role is based full-time in Chawleigh, Devon EX18 7EX ? Do you have a full UK driving licence? Access to own vehicle essential due to location of centre.
Experience:

Management: 2 years (preferred)
Work Location: In person