Operations Manager - Childrens Residential

Ready to make a real impact? At Wilderness Way, we’re growing and evolving, and we’re on the hunt for an exceptional Operations Manager to join our team. If you’re a dynamic leader with a passion for delivering outstanding care and empowering teams, this is your opportunity to shape the future of children’s residential care.

As an Operations Manager, you’ll play a pivotal role in overseeing our cluster of children’s homes, working closely with our Regional Director and leading a team of Registered Service Managers. This isn’t just about meeting objectives; it’s about creating a legacy of care that transforms lives.

You’ll be joining a pioneering provider that’s the first in England to operate under the innovative multi-building children’s home model—a chance to lead in a ground-breaking way.

What You’ll Do

• Inspire Leadership: Mentor and support your team of Registered Managers, driving exceptional care and positive outcomes for children.
• Deliver Excellence: Ensure outstanding care is consistently provided while meeting financial and operational goals.
• Collaborate: Work directly with our Commissioning and Placements Partners and external agencies to tailor care to each child’s needs.
• Empower Teams: Promote our Mission, Vision and Values, coaching managers to achieve their best while maintaining a child-first focus.
• Drive Performance: Use data to monitor and report on service success, identifying opportunities for continuous improvement.

Why Join Us?

A Rewarding Package:

Salary: Up to £69,482 (discussed based on experience and qualifications).
Annual Leave: 35 days, with extra days for continuous service at 2 and 5 years.
Flexibility: 40-hour workweek (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm) with the occasional need for flexibility.
Health & Wellbeing: Private Medical Insurance, Medicash plan, 24/7 GP access, cashback on optical/dental treatments, and gym discounts.
Recognition & Rewards: Bonuses for referrals (£1,000 per successful referral) and monthly Wilderness Heroes awards.
Financial Security: Pension contributions and life assurance (2x salary).
Discounts: High street savings, leisure perks, and tailored local discounts.

A Culture of Growth:

• Opportunities to develop through coaching, industry-recognised qualifications, and career progression pathways.
• Be part of an innovative organisation, leading in therapeutic and assessment-based residential care.
• A workplace driven by Collaboration, Adaptability, Respect, and Empathy—where your voice matters.

What We’re looking for:

• Experience: At least 6 years working with children with challenging behaviours in residential settings, and 4 years in leadership.
• Qualifications: Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care and Children & Young People’s Services.
• Regulatory Expertise: Strong knowledge of Ofsted, safeguarding, and child protection legislation.
• Operational Excellence: Proven ability to manage budgets, implement policies, and meet organisational goals.
• Leadership Skills: A collaborative, inspiring approach to coaching and mentoring your team.
• Commitment to Children: Passionate about making a difference, with a child-focused, problem-solving mindset.
• Flexibility & Mobility: A full UK driving licence and the ability to travel across our services.

Join the Wilderness Movement

At Wilderness Way, we’re shaping brighter futures through innovation, care, and collaboration. If you’re ready to be part of a forward-thinking organisation where every child—and every team member—matters, we want to hear from you.

Click ‘Apply Now’ to register your details or contact us at