Deputy Manager - Children's Home

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 actingup 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 preregistration / 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 dayto-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 dayto-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 decisionmaking - 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 traumainformed 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 handson 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, 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 preregistration 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) * Performancerelated 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