Operations Manager

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Job Description

Be part of shaping the future of Mental Health Social Care in East Sussex. Are you ready to lead meaningful change and help shape a modern, creative approach to social care?

We're not looking for an ordinary Operational Manager (you may have also heard this job referred to as Service Manager in other Local authorities). We're looking for a leader who's excited about supporting a workforce to grow, thrive, and innovate, while making a real difference in the lives of East Sussex residents.

This is a unique opportunity to join a service undergoing transformation, with the chance to lead new developments, use data to inform real improvements, and work in true partnership with residents and colleagues. If you're passionate about recovery-focused, strength-based social care, we want to hear from you.

What's in it for you?

• Play a pivotal role in shaping change - You'll lead and influence service developments that directly impact the lives of adults with mental health needs.
• Grow your career while helping others - We'll support you with ongoing development opportunities, including access to a fully funded Level 6 Chartered Manager apprenticeship (if not already qualified).
• Flexible, modern working - Our hybrid working model means you only need to work in the office one day a week (or more if you prefer). If you want to come in five days a week, we'll make that work too. We trust our people and offer flexibility while keeping residents' needs at the heart of everything we do.
• Work that feels worthwhile - You'll be part of a committed and caring team where your ideas are welcomed, and your leadership will help shape a service that truly supports people to live the life they want.

You'll manage a team of Practice Managers, lead quality improvement, and drive innovation across our mental health services. With support from the Head of Service, you'll lead on a number of exciting service developments, contribute to strategic planning, and ensure services remain person-centred, sustainable, and fit for the future.

This role sits at the heart of our efforts to respond to national health and social care changes, your impact will be felt not just today, but for years to come.

We're looking for someone who:

• Brings significant experience in mental health social care, ideally in a statutory setting
• Has a strong track record in service management, strategic planning, and leading change
• Holds a relevant professional qualification (e.g. Social Work, Occupational Therapy)
• Has a management qualification, or is willing to work towards one (fully funded)
• Believes in working collaboratively, creatively, and always in partnership with residents

To apply for this role, please follow the 'Apply Now' button above and upload your CV and a Supporting Statement. We will be using your Supporting Statement to shortlist so please be sure to address how you meet all the criteria in the person specification, drawing on any relevant work/life experience, education, or personal interests.

Please download the Job Description & Person Specification for further details.

Interviews will take place in person at County Hall in Lewes. If these dates don't work for you please let us know and we'll do our best to accommodate.

Why choose East Sussex County Council?

When you join us, you're joining a place where we work with people, not on them. We value staff wellbeing, collaboration, and innovation, and we're committed to flexible, supportive working environments.

Our benefits include:

• Generous pension scheme
• Hybrid working (minimum one day in the office per week)
• Access to training and funded qualifications
• Lease car scheme (subject to eligibility)
• Access to our extensive wellbeing resources and mental health support
• Reimbursement of your annual Social Work England registration fee

We have a committed workforce who strives to work alongside people who require a service. We are open to initiatives to support positive outcomes by working in a strength-based approach; we would like an Operational Manager with the same ethos to enhance our services.

For more information about our diverse range of benefits please click on the link to show the benefits page.

For an informal chat about the role, please contact Bev Hull (Head of Mental Health Service) Bev.Hull@eastsussex.gov.uk

For work that makes a difference, choose East Sussex!

About Us

Additional Information

This post is subject to an Enhanced DBS check or Enhanced check for Regulated Activity with the Disclosure & Barring Services (previously the Criminal Records Bureau). For further information about what is required in this process please go to https://www.gov.uk/dbs-check-applicant-criminal-record. Please note that we require evidence of an overseas police check if you have lived or worked abroad.

Your starting salary will be pro rata if the above position is part-time or term-time only.

If you require sponsorship to work in the UK please let the hiring manager know this in your application so we can check eligibility for sponsorship for the role. For further information please go to https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/work-visas

If you require any reasonable adjustments, due to disability, to enable you to participate fully in the process please contact the hiring manager on the contact details above.