Deputy Head of Placements

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About The Role

The Deputy Head of Placements supports the Head of Placements in providing effective leadership, management and direction to ensure the highest standards of service across all Placement and Family Finding Teams. This role requires an individual who can confidently take a lead in reviewing, developing and improving the associated placements processes and systems across all divisions and ensuring alignment with operational expectations.

This position requires active participation in the overall development and management of the service. An opportunity to contribute and guide the enhancement of practices, systems and processes within the service. The role also offers the chance to shape and improve the overall functioning of the service, contributing to its continued growth and success.

As a senior manager, the Deputy Head of Placements engages with a variety of internal and external stakeholders, fostering positive discussions about Compass Community services. The role requires a proactive and experienced manager capable of working strategically and collaboratively with regional and divisional teams, while also holding staff accountable to maintain high performance standards.

The essential duties for this role include:

Support Leadership and Management

• Assist the Head of Placements in leading the family finding and placement teams across the Compass Group and wider teams.
• Provide leadership and guidance in the absence of the Head of Placements, ensuring continuity of service delivery.
• Contribute to the development and execution of service plans alongside Senior Management.

Operational Excellence

• Ensure consistency in the application and operation of systems and processes related to effective service delivery.
• Monitor and control activities and governance to ensure safeguarding is in place while enhancing placement performance.
• Contribute to the introduction and development of new service delivery models.
• Provide staff training and guidance in line with system development and enhancement.
• Analyse key performance indicators (KPIs) and identify areas for continuous improvement, implementing necessary changes.

System and Process Improvement

• Utilise electronic systems effectively and take a lead on the development of systems and processes for efficiency improvement.
• Support the introduction and development of new service delivery methods.

Staff Development and Management

• Where required, support the Head of Placements in providing inspirational leadership and fostering a positive and high-performing team environment.
• Where required, assist with staff induction, supervision and appraisal processes for team members, in line with Compass policies.
• Support the development of team members' skills and knowledge to enhance their role effectiveness.
• Assist in addressing underperformance, capability, or competency issues as per agency policies.
• Participate in the recruitment and appointment processes for new staff as required.
• Assist in the planning and structuring of regional team resources to maximise efficiency and productivity.
• Support with managing staff shortages appropriately, ensuring organisational needs are met and providing emergency cover when necessary.

Safeguarding and Compliance

• Remain informed with relevant legislation, research findings, and best practices related to safeguarding.
• Ensure compliance with safeguarding procedures and the Data Protection Act (GDPR), maintaining strict confidentiality.
• Promote and advocate for Compass's positive image, maintaining high standards and a strong reputation.
• Ensure all practices comply with the Equal Opportunities Policy and Procedure.

Additional Responsibilities

• Actively participate in regional management meetings and other relevant forums.
• Regularly travel to other Compass Community offices and customer sites as required.
• Act as an effective advocate for Compass, upholding a positive image and reputation.
• Adapt to changing organisational demands and work within set deadlines.

Compassis an equal-opportunity employer that is committed to diversity andinclusion in the workplace. As we continue to grow, we know that we musthave the most talented employees with diverse backgrounds, cultures,perspectives, and experiences to support our children and young people

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