Head of Operations (COO) - Private Children's Home provider

About the OpportunityWe are seeking an exceptional Head of Operations to join our ambitious new private children's home company at launch in early 2026. This is a rare opportunity to be instrumental in building a major regional provider from the ground up, backed by very significant investment and a clear vision for substantial growth over the next 3-5 years.As our Chief Operating Officer, you will work directly alongside our Chief Executive to establish operational excellence from day one, creating the foundation for a fast-expanding organisation that will make a meaningful difference to vulnerable children's lives.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Operations LeadershipOversee all operational aspects of our children's homes portfolio as we scale from launch to major regional providerDevelop and implement operational strategies that support rapid but sustainable growthWork closely with the Chief Executive on business development and strategic planningPlacements and Local Authority RelationsManage placement processes and maintain strong relationships with local authorities across the regionEnsure optimal occupancy levels while maintaining focus on appropriate matching and care qualityLead negotiations and relationship building with commissioning teamsCare Quality and SafeguardingMaintain overall responsibility for care quality standards across all homesServe as the organisation's senior safeguarding lead, ensuring robust policies and proceduresDrive continuous improvement in care outcomes and regulatory complianceOversee Ofsted preparations and maintain outstanding regulatory relationshipsTeam and Service DevelopmentSupport recruitment and development of home managers and care teamsEstablish consistent operational frameworks and best practices across sitesMentor and develop the next generation of children's home leadersEssential RequirementsProfessional Qualifications and RegistrationCurrent registration as a Suitable Person to manage a children's homeProven experience as a registered children's home managerDemonstrable experience as a safeguarding lead in residential childcare settingsLeadership ExperienceSenior operational leadership experience within children's residential careTrack record of managing multiple sites or supporting business growthExperience working with local authority commissioning teamsSkills and AttributesStrong understanding of regulatory frameworks and Ofsted requirementsExcellent relationship-building skills with local authorities and stakeholdersCommercial acumen with understanding of the independent sectorPassion for improving outcomes for children in careResilience and adaptability to thrive in a fast-growth environmentWhat We OfferCompetitive salary and benefits package reflecting the seniority of this roleEquity participation in a high-growth company with substantial backingThe opportunity to shape and build something exceptional from the ground upProfessional development budget and career progression opportunitiesThe chance to make a genuine impact on vulnerable children's lives at scaleAbout UsWe are launching as a new private children's home company in early 2026, with very significant financial backing and ambitious but achievable growth plans. Our vision is to become a major regional provider known for exceptional care quality, innovation, and positive outcomes for children and young people.This is more than just a job – it's the opportunity to be a founding leader in an organisation that will make a real difference to some of society's most vulnerable young people.To Apply: Please submit your CV and a covering letter explaining why you're the right person to lead our operations as we build something special.

Created: 2025-07-24