Service Manager (Kent East Cluster)

Company: Mental Health Matters
Apply for the Service Manager (Kent East Cluster)
Location: Canterbury
Job Description:

Job Summary

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced and values‑driven Service Manager to join Mental Health Matters. In this pivotal leadership role you will provide visible and accountable leadership across our Safe Havens in Canterbury, Folkestone and Ramsgate, ensuring the delivery of safe, high‑quality and recovery‑focused support that helps people live well and thrive.

Hours & Pay

Hours of work: 37.5 hours per weekSalary: £39,357 with progression to £43,791 per annumLocation: Kent – covering services in Canterbury, Folkestone and Ramsgate

Key Responsibilities

  • Hold full responsibility for the operational performance, quality, workforce and financial sustainability of your services.
  • Make decisions that balance quality, safety, demand and resources, ensuring services remain responsive, effective and sustainable.
  • Create positive and inclusive cultures where people feel valued, supported and empowered to deliver outstanding person‑centred care.
  • Lead and develop Team Managers and broader teams, ensuring high standards, continuous improvement and excellent outcomes for the people who use our services.
  • Support local growth and development by working closely with commissioners, partners and communities, positioning services within neighbourhood and place‑based models.
  • Lead operational leadership activities including workforce planning, training, budgeting and governance.
  • Engage with local partners, commissioners and stakeholders to shape future opportunities for Mental Health Matters.
  • Ensure services are available during evenings (up to 11pm) and weekends to meet people’s needs.

Core Qualifications & Experience

  • Experience of managing services within mental health, health, social care or a related field.
  • A proven track record of delivering against performance targets, managing teams and leading through change.
  • Strong operational leadership with a practical, solutions‑focused approach.
  • Experience of managing performance, workforce challenges and service improvement.
  • Financial awareness and experience of managing budgets and resources effectively.
  • Knowledge of governance, safeguarding, risk management and compliance frameworks.
  • Strong leadership skills, with the ability to support, challenge and develop others.
  • The ability to use data and insight to drive performance and continuous improvement.
  • Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills.
  • A commitment to recovery‑focused, person‑centred support and co‑production.
  • Values‑led, authentic leadership who takes ownership and builds positive relationships.

Benefits & Working Conditions

  • Competitive salary with annual pay review.
  • 25 days annual leave, increasing with length of service, plus bank holidays.
  • Enhanced occupational sick pay.
  • Access to our workplace pension scheme.
  • Family‑friendly and flexible working arrangements.
  • Access to our Wellbeing Offer – including EAP, virtual GP service and wellbeing resources.
  • Life assurance and free will‑writing service.
  • Blue Light Card and Charity Workers discounts.
  • Access to Tickets for Good and employee recognition schemes.
  • A tailored induction programme and bespoke personal development and career pathways.

E‑quality, Diversity & Inclusion

Mental Health Matters is proud to be an equal‑opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve, ensuring fair and accessible opportunities for all.

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Posted: July 5th, 2026