Depute Operations Manager

Job Title: Depute Operations Manager (SEBN) Place of Work: Flexible, overseeing various home locations peripatetically Line Managed/ Supervised by: Operations Manager Line Manages/ Supervises: Residential Managers Salary: £58,000 plus car allowance (£4800 annually) including achievable £7,500 bonus (reviewed annually) Job Overview: Spark of Genius is seeking a highly experienced and dedicated Depute Operations Manager to join our Senior Management Team. The successful candidate will work closely with Residential Managers across our organisation, providing leadership and support to ensure the delivery of exceptional residential care services for children and young people with Social Emotional and Behavioural Needs (SEBN). Other needs of children and young people will be part of the management element of this role but SEBN will be the predominant profile. The role requires maintaining high standards of care in alignment with the Care Inspectorate’s quality framework and ensuring adherence to the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) code of conduct. This is a supernumerary position designed to bolster our management capabilities and drive the continuous improvement of our services. Key Responsibilities: Quality Assurance and Compliance: - Collaborate with residential managers to ensure that all care homes consistently meet or exceed the standards set by the Care Inspectorate's quality framework. - Regularly review and update care practices to maintain a ‘Very Good’ or ‘Excellent’ grading by the Care Inspectorate. - Ensure all services adhere to the SSSC code of conduct, promoting a culture of professionalism, respect, and high ethical standards. - Conduct regular audits and assessments to identify areas for improvement and implement effective action plans. Operational Leadership: - Provide leadership and guidance to residential care home managers, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment. - Oversee the implementation of care plans and interventions tailored to the unique needs of children and young people with SEBN. - Ensure that the operational practices across all homes are aligned with the strategic aims and objectives of Spark of Genius. - Support the development and training of staff to maintain a high standard of care delivery. Strategic Development: - Contribute to the strategic development plan for Spark of Genius, specifically in relation to SEBN provisions. - Work with the Senior Operations Manager to set and achieve strategic targets for the organisation. - Lead projects and initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality and scope of residential care services. - Foster partnerships with external stakeholders and agencies to support the strategic goals of Spark of Genius. Risk Management: - Develop and implement risk management strategies to safeguard the well-being of children, staff, and the organisation. - Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations and best practices. - Address and resolve any operational issues or incidents in a timely and effective manner. - Be confident and competent in supporting robust Child Protection procedures in line with policy and reporting and have a sound working knowledge of the National Guidance for Child Protection Scotland 2023. Financial Management: - Overarching responsibility for ensuring maximum occupancy across services. Ensuring that placements are matched and vacancies are swiftly accommodated. - Assist in the preparation and management of annual budgets for residential care services, ensuring financial viability and cost-effectiveness. - Monitor financial performance against budgetary targets and implement strategies to address any variances. - Promote efficient use of resources while maintaining high-quality care standards. - Ensure compliance with financial policies and procedures. Qualifications and Experience: Essential: - Minimum of 5 years' experience as a Residential Care Home Manager in Scotland. - Demonstrated leadership in a service graded ‘Very Good’ or ‘Excellent’ by the Care Inspectorate. - Extensive knowledge of the Care Inspectorate’s quality framework and the SSSC code of conduct. - Proven experience in managing budgets and delivering financially viable services. - Strong strategic t