Job Description
Please double check you have the right level of experience and qualifications by reading the full overview of this opportunity below.
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, xwzovoh 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