We are seeking an experienced, motivated, and compassionate Operational Manager to lead and develop Adult Mental Health Social Care services. This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic leader who is passionate about improving outcomes for adults with mental health needs and ensuring the delivery of high-quality, person-centred services. 

As Operations Manager you will provide strategic and operational leadership across several teams, ensuring services are safe, effective, financially sustainable and focused on promoting independence, recovery, and wellbeing. 

Reporting to the Head of Service, you will be responsible for the operational management and ongoing development of Adult Mental Health Social Care services. You will lead managers and practitioners to deliver excellent outcomes while ensuring compliance with legislative, regulatory, and organisational requirements. 

We are looking for someone who has: 

• Registered with professional body such as Social Work England
• Significant management experience within a relevant field, working with individuals with complex needs, homelessness, domestic abuse, safeguarding
• Strong leadership and people management skills with experience managing operational performance, quality standards and budgets 
• Excellent knowledge of relevant legislation and guidance, including the Care Act, Mental Capacity Act, and safeguarding responsibilities
• Excellent communication, problem-solving and decision-making skills, with the ability to build strong partnerships and work effectively across organisational boundaries 
• A commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion, and person-centred practice 

Please download the job description and person specification for more information. 

To apply for this role, please upload your CV and supporting statement. We will use your supporting statement for shortlisting. When writing your supporting statement please explain how you meet the following criteria from the person specification drawing on any relevant work/life experience, education or personal interests: 

1. Manage the budgetary performance of a designated service unit within the Departmental scheme of delegation. 
2. Managing service performance, quality assurance, and continuous improvement. 
3. Achieve an effective delivery of service through the management of people, and take responsibility for the formal operation of the County Council’s policies and procedures pertaining to personnel related matters  
4. Promoting a culture of inclusion, innovation, learning, and professional development. 
5. Ensuring compliance with the Care Act, Mental Health Act, Mental Capacity Act, and safeguarding responsibilities 

For guidance on how to write an application see our how to apply page and our statement on the use of AI.

Interviews will be held in person. Location and dates to be confirmed. 

Candidates who meet certain criteria are given priority when we shortlist. See our priority status page for details.  

If you are an inspiring leader who is passionate about improving outcomes for adults experiencing complex needs, homelessness, and domestic abuse, we would love to hear from you.

We offer a diverse range of benefits to help and support you during your employment. 

• A rewarding leadership role with real impact.
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
• Supportive leadership and collaborative working environment.
• Generous annual leave entitlement.
• Pension scheme and employee benefits package.
• Flexible working opportunities where possible.

More information can be found on our benefits page.

If you would like an informal discussion please contact Bev Hull, Head of Service - bev.hull@eastsussex.gov.uk

For work that makes a difference, choose East Sussex!