Job Description

Overview

We are seeking a highly experienced, resilient, and hands-on Service Manager to take immediate leadership of an established care service. This role is suited to a proven problem-solver who can step into a complex operational environment from day one, identify risks quickly, and implement effective improvements without delay.

The successful candidate will be expected to lead from the front, stabilise day-to-day operations, support staff confidently, and ensure safe, compliant, and person-centred care delivery. This is not a developmental role — demonstrated experience in fixing services, managing pressure, and driving improvement is essential.

Employment Type & Contract

• Zero-hours contract (initially)
• Immediate start required
• Strong potential to transition into a permanent role directly with the care provider, subject to performance and mutual agreement

This role offers an excellent opportunity for an experienced manager to demonstrate impact quickly, with a clear pathway to longer-term or permanent employment for the right candidate.

Key Responsibilities

• Take immediate operational responsibility for the service, ensuring safe, compliant, and effective delivery of care
• Rapidly assess current practices, identify risks or gaps, and implement corrective actions
• Lead, support, and supervise staff teams, setting clear expectations and accountability
• Manage incidents, concerns, and escalations professionally and decisively
• Ensure robust safeguarding practice and adherence to all policies, procedures, and regulatory standards
• Provide strong, visible leadership on shift and during critical situations
• Handle complex staff and stakeholder conversations with confidence and professionalism
• Organise and oversee rotas, training, supervision, and performance management
• Maintain accurate records, audits, and reports to support continuous service improvement

Essential Experience & Skills

• Proven experience as a Service Manager, Registered Manager, or Senior Manager within health & social care
• Clear evidence of successfully stabilising, improving, or turning around services
• Strong, practical knowledge of safeguarding, compliance, and regulatory requirements
• Ability to step into a service and make effective decisions immediately
• Confident leadership style with the ability to challenge poor practice appropriately
• Excellent organisational, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to remain calm, decisive, and effective in high-pressure environments

Highly Desirable

• Experience managing services under increased scrutiny or improvement plans
• Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health & Social Care (or equivalent / working towards)
• Supported living, residential, or complex needs background
• Strong audit, incident management, and staff development experience

Important to Note

This role requires someone who can hit the ground running. xbpsjku The successful candidate will be expected to take ownership of the service quickly, provide stability, and drive measurable improvements from the outset.