Location: Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire
Salary: Competitive (DOE)
Hours: 37.5 per week
Reports To: Head of Operational Improvement
Purpose of the Role
The Operational Improvement Manager plays a key role in supporting services to achieve and sustain high standards of care and operational performance. Working across multiple services, you will provide practical, hands-on support to managers and teams to strengthen leadership, improve service performance and deliver outstanding outcomes for the people we support.
This is a varied role requiring adaptability, resilience and a collaborative approach with operational and functional colleagues. You will quickly assess the needs of a service and provide targeted support, whether through interim management, leading or supporting improvement programmes and supporting new managers to set them up for success.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Operational Improvement
Work alongside operational leaders to improve key performance indicators including quality, compliance, culture, and general service performance.
Support services experiencing operational challenges by providing practical solutions and hands-on leadership.
Identify barriers to performance and support managers to implement sustainable solutions.
Leadership Support
Provide interim management support where operational needs require.
Coach, mentor and support Registered Managers to develop confidence and leadership capability.
Provide structured support to newly appointed managers to help them succeed.
Build positive working relationships that encourage accountability, collaboration and continuous learning.
Lead by example, promoting professionalism, inclusion and a positive organisational culture.
Collaboration and Communication
Work collaboratively with operational leaders, central support teams and external professionals.
Produce clear reports outlining service performance, risks, progress and recommendations.
Represent the organisation positively with regulators, commissioners and partner agencies where appropriate.
Experience
Essential
Experience as a Registered Manager or Deputy Manager within adult social care services supporting people with learning disabilities, autism and/or mental health needs.
Experience supporting or leading services through inspection or improvement programmes.
Experience coaching, mentoring and developing colleagues.
Desirable
Experience working across multiple services or operational areas.
Experience providing interim management support.
Experience supporting newly appointed managers.
Knowledge
Essential
Strong understanding of adult social care legislation, safeguarding, governance and regulatory requirements.
Sound knowledge of quality assurance, service improvement and performance management.
Understanding of person-centred care and outcomes-based practice.
Skills
Essential
Ability to rapidly assess service performance and identify priorities.
Strong communication and relationship-building skills with the ability to influence and challenge constructively.
Ability to analyse quality and operational performance information to drive improvement.
Strong planning and organisational skills, managing competing priorities across multiple services.
Adaptable and able to work effectively within changing operational environments.
Confident decision-maker with sound judgement and problem-solving skills.
Personal Attributes
Passionate about improving outcomes for the people we support.
Positive, approachable and collaborative.
Resilient and calm under pressure.
Demonstrates integrity, professionalism and accountability.
Leads by example and promotes an inclusive, supportive and high-performing culture.
Qualifications
Essential
Desirable
- Degree or professional qualification in Health and Social Care, Leadership and Management or Quality Improvement.
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