Job Overview
We are seeking an experienced, dedicated, and highly motivated Operations Manager to lead our independent fostering agency. This is a pivotal leadership role responsible for the strategic, operational, and regulatory management of the service, ensuring the highest standards of care, safeguarding, and support for children and young people.
The successful candidate will be registered with Ofsted and possess a strong track record in fostering services, leadership, and regulatory compliance. You will inspire and develop a high-performing team while promoting a child-centred culture that delivers outstanding outcomes for children, foster carers, and partner agencies.
Key Responsibilities
* Register with Ofsted and take overall responsibility for the effective management of the fostering agency.
* Ensure compliance with the Fostering Services (England) Regulations, National Minimum Standards, and all relevant legislation and statutory guidance.
* Lead, manage, and develop the fostering service, promoting excellence in professional practice and continuous improvement.
* Recruit, supervise, support, and appraise social workers and operational staff.
* Oversee the recruitment, assessment, approval, supervision, and retention of foster carers.
* Ensure robust safeguarding arrangements are in place to protect children and young people.
* Oversee the effective matching of children and young people with suitable foster families to promote stability and positive outcomes.
* Chair Fostering Panel meetings and undertake Agency Decision Maker (ADM) responsibilities where appropriate.
* Build and maintain strong relationships with local authorities, commissioners, and partner organisations.
* Monitor placement stability, quality assurance, and performance indicators across the service.
* Manage budgets, resources, occupancy levels, and financial performance in line with organisational objectives.
* Lead the service through Ofsted inspections and ensure recommendations are implemented effectively.
* Develop and review policies, procedures, and operational practices to reflect current legislation and best practice.
* Oversee complaints, safeguarding concerns, allegations, and investigations, ensuring timely and appropriate responses.
* Produce management reports, analyse performance data, and implement service improvements.
* Promote a positive, child-centred culture focused on achieving the best possible outcomes for children and young people.
* Ensure all staff receive effective supervision, ongoing training, and opportunities for professional development.
* Contribute to the strategic planning, growth, and future development of the fostering service.
* Maintain strong, supportive relationships with foster carers, ensuring they receive high-quality supervision, guidance, and support.
* Ensure the agency consistently delivers safe, high-quality, and fully compliant fostering services.
Essential Requirements
Qualified Social Worker with current Social Work England registration.
Significant management experience within fostering services.
Experience working in a Independant Fostering Agency
Experienced Registered Manager
Level 5 Leadership and Management
Thorough knowledge of the Fostering Services Regulations, National Minimum Standards, and relevant childcare legislation.
Proven leadership and people management skills.
Experience preparing for and managing Ofsted inspections.
Strong understanding of safeguarding, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance.
Excellent communication, organisational, and relationship-building skills.
Ability to manage budgets, performance, and service development effectively.
Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel where required.
What We Offer
Competitive salary (dependent on experience).
Generous annual leave entitlement.
Ongoing professional development and leadership training.
Supportive and collaborative working environment.
Pension scheme.
Employee wellbeing support.
Opportunities to contribute to the growth and development of an ambitious fostering service.
If you are an experienced fostering leader who is passionate about improving the lives of children and young people, we would love to hear from you. Join us and play a key role in delivering exceptional fostering services that make a lasting difference
Salary description
£52000.00 - £57000.00 per year