The Opportunity

This is a key leadership appointment within a new children’s home, renovated to a very high standard.

Following the appointment of a newly developing Registered Manager, we are seeking a strong, experienced Deputy Manager to help build a high-performing, stable, and compliant service, while also positioning themselves as a future Registered Manager as the organisation grows.

This role is ideal for someone who:

• Is already operating at a strong Deputy or acting-up Manager level
• Wants to play a central role in shaping a home from early stages
• Is confident supporting and strengthening a developing Registered Manager
• Sees themselves stepping into a Registered Manager position in the near future

Context of the Role

The home is:

• At pre-registration / inspection stage with Ofsted
• Led by a Registered Manager stepping into the role for the first time
• Supported by an experienced Responsible Individual and wider leadership team

This Deputy role is therefore critical in:

• Providing experience, stability, and day-to-day leadership strength
• Acting as a trusted number two, with the confidence to challenge and support
• Stepping in to lead the home operationally when required

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Support the Registered Manager in the day-to-day running of the home
• Take the lead in the RM’s absence, ensuring continuity of safe and effective operations
• Maintain high standards of care, staffing, and home environment

Safeguarding & Quality

• Lead by example in safeguarding practice and decision-making
• Ensure full compliance with Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015 and Quality Standards
• Support preparation for and response to Ofsted inspections
• Monitor care quality and contribute to continuous improvement

Team Leadership

• Support recruitment, supervision, and development of staff
• Act as a strong role model for trauma-informed and child-centred care
• Address performance issues early and constructively

Service Development & Stability

• Help stabilise and embed the home’s structure, routines, and culture
• Contribute to the development of policies, procedures, and systems
• Support the Registered Manager in building a resilient and consistent service

Leadership Progression

• Take on increasing responsibility as the service grows
• Be prepared to step into a Registered Manager role in the future (within this or another home)
• Engage with leadership development and succession planning

Operating Expectations

This is not a passive Deputy role.

You will be expected to:

• Be a hands-on leader, visible within the home and team
• Provide confidence and experience to support a developing Registered Manager
• Operate with a high level of accountability and ownership
• Balance support and constructive challenge in leadership dynamics
• Thrive in a growing organisation where structure is still being built

Person Specification

Essential

• Minimum 3–5 years’ experience in children’s residential care
• At least 2 years in a senior / deputy leadership role
• Strong working knowledge of Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015 and Quality Standards
• Proven ability to lead shifts, manage staff, and maintain standards
• Experience supporting children with trauma, behavioural needs, or complex backgrounds
• Level 3 Diploma in Children and Young People’s Workforce (or equivalent)
• Working towards or holding Level 5 in Leadership & Management for Residential Childcare

Desirable

• Experience in home openings or pre-registration environments
• Experience supporting or mentoring less experienced managers
• Confidence in engaging with Ofsted processes and inspections
• Ambition to progress into a Registered Manager role

What We’re Really Looking For

We are looking for someone who:

• Brings experience where it matters
• Is confident enough to lead when needed, without ego
• Can support and strengthen—not undermine—the Registered Manager
• Understands the balance between compliance, care quality, and team culture
• Wants to grow with the organisation, not just take a job

What’s on Offer

• Competitive salary (aligned to experience)
• Performance-related incentives
• Clear progression pathway to Registered Manager and beyond
• Opportunity to be part of a founding leadership team
• Support from an experienced Responsible Individual and wider group