Head of Operations (Care Homes)
Harbour Healthcare – Location: National (regular travel across 40 care homes)
The Head of Operations will play a pivotal national leadership role in supporting the Director of Operations and designated Regional Managers to deliver excellent operational performance across 40 care homes. This role will ensure the highest standards of care, compliance, and business efficiency are maintained, and will deputise for the Director of Operations when required.
Operational Leadership & Support
- Provide strategic and operational support to Regional Managers to ensure each care home delivers high‑quality, person‑centred care.
- Monitor performance, compliance, occupancy, staffing, and financial targets across regions, intervening when performance dips.
- Lead on the implementation of new policies, procedures, and improvement plans across the estate.
- Ensure effective communication and collaboration across all operational levels.
- Conduct regular regional and home visits to support and guide local leadership.
Quality & Compliance
- Support Regional Managers in ensuring homes are fully compliant with CQC/Care Inspectorate (Wales) standards and internal governance frameworks.
- Participate in and support preparation for CQC/Care Inspectorate (Wales) inspections, internal audits, and safeguarding investigations.
- Promote a culture of continuous improvement and learning.
Leadership & People Management
- Mentor and develop Regional Managers, supporting their leadership capabilities and performance.
- Deputise for the Operations Director in meetings, reporting, and decision‑making as needed.
- Support recruitment, onboarding, and development of senior care home leaders (e.g., Home Managers).
Strategic Development
- Contribute to business planning, growth strategy, and innovation projects.
- Identify risks and opportunities at both regional and national levels, escalating appropriately.
- Support integration and mobilisation of new homes or services into the operational portfolio.
Performance Monitoring & Reporting
- Analyse performance data, providing insights and recommendations to the Operations Director.
- Lead or contribute to the resolution of underperformance or operational crises.
Essential Requirements
- Proven experience in a senior operations role within the care sector, preferably across multiple sites.
- In‑depth knowledge of CQC/CIW regulations and best practices in adult social care.
- Strong leadership, mentoring, and team development skills.
- Excellent communication, analytical, and problem‑solving abilities.
- Willingness and ability to travel nationally on a regular basis.
- Driving licence.
- Enhanced DBS check in relation to Children and Adults required.
Desirable
- Relevant health or social care qualification (e.g., RN, NVQ Level 5 in Health & Social Care or Leadership & Management).
- Five years’ experience in a senior operational role.
- Experience in leading through regulatory inspection or turnaround situations.
- Commercial acumen with budget and financial management experience.
Benefits
- Training and support to obtain a qualification in health and social care.
- Opportunities for promotion and career growth.
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