Head Of Operations (Asylum Services)

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Head of Operations (Asylum Services)

Location: Rotherham, with regular travel to Hull, Grimsby and Derby

Salary: £53,100 per annum starting salary, plus mileage
Hours: 39 Hours Full-time | Permanent

Closing Date: 10th September

Lead with purpose. Deliver with impact.

We're looking for a strategic, values led leader to oversee the operational delivery of our Asylum Accommodation and Support Service across South Yorkshire, the Humber, Derby and Nottingham.

As Head of Operations, you will be the senior lead for a high value, high impact contract supporting some of the most vulnerable people in our society, asylum seekers in need of safe, dignified housing and compassionate support. Reporting directly to the CEO, you'll provide strategic oversight, manage risk and compliance, and work closely with national partners and local services to ensure the contract delivers real results.

You'll work alongside a Service Manager who leads day to day operations, allowing you to focus on performance, quality, stakeholder engagement and innovation. You'll also help shape and lead new services and projects aligned with the organisation's mission and the evolving needs of our communities.

We're looking for someone who has:

Senior experience leading large-scale housing, asylum, homelessness or public sector contracts

The ability to engage with commissioners, regulators and delivery partners at a senior level

A passion for social justice and making systems work better for people

See Job Profile Below

What we offer:

• We offer a package that supports your wellbeing, growth and values:
• 28 days' annual leave, rising to 33 days (plus bank holidays)
• Flexible working options once up to speed (predominantly office-based)
• Pension scheme (4% employer / 4% employee)
• Mileage reimbursement at 45p per mile
• Westfield Health Scheme (covering optical, dental, mental health and more)
• Lifetime Financial Planning support
• A collaborative, purpose driven leadership team
• The chance to create meaningful, lasting social impact

Apply now

If you're ready to bring your leadership, operational and strategic expertise to a role with purpose, we'd love to hear from you. Apply by 10th September and help shape the future of asylum support in our region.

Please note: We reserve the right to close our vacancies early if sufficient applications are received. We recommend submitting your application as soon as possible.

Get in touch

If you have any questions about the role, please get in touch with catherine.heath@targethousing.org.uk

This role is subject to Enhanced DBS and CTC clearance, a full valid driving licence, access to a road worthy vehicle and two satisfactory reference checks

Head of Operations (Asylum Services) - Job profile

Main Purpose

As a key member of our Senior Leadership Team, the Head of Operations will provide strategic leadership and contract oversight for our Asylum Accommodation and Support Contract (AASC), delivering safe, compliant and compassionate services to asylum seekers across South Yorkshire, the Humber, Derby and Nottingham.

You will take overall accountability for performance, compliance, risk and stakeholder relationships relating to the AASC contract, while directly managing Service Managers responsible for day to day operational delivery. You will also contribute to organisational strategy, lead continuous improvement initiatives, and shape the development of complementary services that align with our values and mission.

Key Responsibilities

Contract & Service Leadership

• Lead the strategic delivery of the AASC contract, ensuring all performance, compliance and safeguarding standards are consistently met
• Act as the senior point of contact for commissioners, national providers and other key partners
• Lead on contract reviews, audits, reporting, and external relationship management
• Ensure compliance with regulatory, contractual and organisational policies - including safeguarding, health and safety, and risk management

Team Leadership & Management

• Provide clear leadership and line management to Service Managers across multiple locations
• Support managers to build high performing, resilient, and values led teams
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement and accountability
• Ensure professional standards, wellbeing, and staff development across the services

Strategic Contribution

• Collaborate with the CEO and SLT to shape organisational strategy and direction
• Use data, insight and service user feedback to inform improvements and innovation
• Identify and support the development of new or complementary services that respond to emerging needs
• Represent the organisation in forums, conferences and sector networks

Governance & Financial Oversight

• Monitor and report on contract budgets in line with financial plans
• Prepare reports for the Board, funders, and external stakeholders as required
• Support organisational governance, quality assurance and risk management processes

Person specification

Essential:

• Senior level leadership experience within housing, asylum support, homelessness, or a related public or voluntary service
• Proven ability to manage large scale contracts with responsibility for compliance, performance and risk
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with experience working with commissioners, regulators and delivery partners
• Experience leading dispersed teams and supporting managers to deliver outcomes
• Sound understanding of safeguarding, housing and support services for vulnerable people, particularly asylum seekers

Desirable:

• Direct experience with the AASC contract or similar national programmes
• Experience of service transformation or strategic programme development
• Experience managing services across multiple sites and regions

About Us

We are a mission led organisation delivering housing and support services to people facing homelessness, exclusion and displacement. Through the AASC contract and our wider services, we provide safety, dignity and support to those seeking asylum and refuge in the UK.

Competencies

Customer Focus (Critical)

Developing & Coaching Others (Critical)

Planning & Organising (Critical)

Confidence & Judgement (Very Important)

Integrity (Very Important)

Communication & Influencing (Very Important)

Team Work (Critical)

Flexibility (Critical)

Leading by Example (Very Important)