Deputy Manager

Step into a pivotal leadership role within a large, well-regarded residential dementia home in Thornton, where high-quality care and a strong CQC rating are already in place. This is a newly created position, working alongside an experienced Deputy and a supportive Registered Manager, giving you the platform to shape practice and drive standards even further. With a clear pathway to progress to Registered Manager after a year’s successful service, this is an ideal move for an ambitious care leader ready for their next step.

About the Role:
As Deputy Manager, you will support the Registered Manager in the day-to-day running of a large residential dementia home, ensuring safe, person-centred care and smooth operational delivery. You will provide visible leadership on the floor, guiding and supporting staff to deliver consistently high standards. Working closely with the existing Deputy, you will contribute to strategic planning, service development, and continuous improvement across the home.

Key Responsibilities:
* Lead and support care teams on shift, providing guidance, supervision, and direction to ensure high-quality dementia care.
* Oversee daily operations, including staffing, rota management, and allocation of duties, to maintain safe and effective service delivery.
* Monitor care standards and documentation, conducting audits and spot checks to ensure compliance with CQC and internal policies.
* Contribute to and implement care plans in partnership with residents, families, and external professionals, promoting person-centred outcomes.
* Support the Registered Manager with investigations, incident reviews, and corrective action plans to address issues and improve practice.
* Drive performance management across the team, including conducting supervisions, appraisals, and performance improvement plans.
* Participate in and contribute to strategic planning meetings, identifying opportunities to enhance resident experience and operational efficiency.
* Act as a key point of contact for residents, families, and professionals, resolving concerns promptly and maintaining strong relationships.

Key Requirements:
* Proven experience in a leadership or senior role within a care home or similar adult social care setting.
* Strong team management skills, with the ability to motivate, coach, and develop staff in a busy environment.
* Demonstrable experience of strategic planning and confident, timely decision-making in a care setting.
* Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with residents, families, staff, and external stakeholders.
* Strong problem-solving abilities, with a track record of managing complex situations and implementing practical solutions.
* Experience of performance management, including conducting supervisions, appraisals, and managing underperformance.
* Solid understanding of CQC standards, safeguarding, and regulatory requirements within residential dementia care.

Desirable Skills:
* Experience working specifically in a large residential dementia home.
* Previous experience in a Deputy Manager or step-up role supporting a Registered Manager.
* Involvement in service development projects or quality improvement initiatives.
* Confidence using electronic care planning and management systems.

Qualifications:
* NVQ/QCF Level 3 in Health and Social Care (or equivalent) as a minimum.
* NVQ/QCF Level 5 in Leadership for Health and Social Care (or willingness to work towards this).
* Evidence of ongoing professional development relevant to dementia care and leadership.
* Up-to-date mandatory training in key areas such as safeguarding, medication management, and health and safety (or willingness to update on appointment).

If you are an ambitious care leader ready to step into a Deputy role with clear progression to Registered Manager, this is an excellent opportunity to make a lasting impact—apply now to be considered