- Location: ME2, Upper Upnor, Medway
- Salary: £44,000 – £50,000 per annum
- Contract Type: Permanent
- Hours: Full-time
Job Description:
Optima Plus Recruitment is seeking an exceptional Deputy Manager for a highly regarded children’s residential home in Medway, rated “Good in all areas.” The home provides a nurturing, safe, and supportive environment for up to 5 children aged 11–17, where staff are committed to ensuring every child can thrive, grow, and achieve their potential.
As Deputy Manager, you will work closely with the Registered Manager to provide strategic leadership, inspire a skilled team, and ensure the delivery of outstanding care for children with complex emotional and behavioural needs. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate, experienced professional who thrives in a dynamic, child-focused environment.
Responsibilities:
- Support the Registered Manager in leading the home and maintaining the highest standards of care, ensuring compliance with statutory regulations and best practice frameworks.
- Supervise, mentor, and develop a motivated staff team, promoting continuous professional growth and excellence in practice.
- Oversee care planning, risk assessments, and behaviour management strategies tailored to each child’s needs, ensuring safety, wellbeing, and positive outcomes.
- Manage operational aspects of the home, including staff rotas, resources, and budgets, ensuring smooth day-to-day running.
- Build effective partnerships with families, social workers, external agencies, and multi-disciplinary teams to promote the best outcomes for children.
- Deputise for the Registered Manager when required, ensuring the home operates efficiently and safely at all times.
Required Skills & Experience:
- NVQ Level 3 / Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare or equivalent.
- Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management (or willingness to work towards).
- Demonstrable experience in a supervisory or management role within a children’s residential setting.
- Significant experience supporting children with emotional, behavioural, or complex needs.
- Full UK driving licence with access to a vehicle for work purposes.
- Outstanding leadership, communication, and organisational skills, with a proven ability to inspire and motivate teams.
- Resilient, solution-focused, and committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of children.
Company Overview:
A trusted and UKAS ISO9001 accredited leader in the recruitment industry. Providing comprehensive recruitment solutions across more than 20 diverse industries. Specializing in both temporary and permanent placements, as a modern and innovative organization, we leverage our valuable experience and adhere to a strict set of core values throughout our recruitment processes. Our commitment to excellence, integrity, and professionalism ensures that we consistently exceed expectations and build long-lasting relationships with both clients and all staff.
Armed Forces Covenant & Disability Committed: Equal Opportunity Employer
Optima Plus Recruitment is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace. We actively support the Armed Forces Covenant and are a Disability Committed employer. We do not discriminate based on race, colour, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are dedicated to eliminating barriers to employment. If you need accommodations during the recruitment process, please let us know, and we will work with you to meet your needs.
How to Apply:
If you are passionate about making a difference and want to be part of a professional and supportive team, apply now by submitting your CV and cover letter.