Who You Are As a Service Manager in Children's Services, you are passionate about promoting safety and positive outcomes for children and young people. You bring extensive experience in child protection and management, thriving in high-pressure environments. Your resilient and empathetic nature allows you to effectively lead and support team managers, ensuring the implementation of safe and effective social work practices. You are skilled in collaborating with families and professionals, promoting a solution-focused approach to ensure the well-being of children in your care. What the Job Involves The role of the Service Manager involves supervising, leading, and supporting team managers within the Leaving Care service. You will oversee risk management and decision-making, ensuring alignment with professional standards, laws, and local policies. This position requires you to maintain an optimal staff complement, manage recruitment, retention, and foster ongoing staff development. You will contribute to strategic service development, enhance performance, and support legal processes as necessary. Chairing meetings, managing budgets, and participating in emergency duty rotas are also key responsibilities, all while ensuring the safety and best interests of the children we serve. Skills Extensive experience in child protection and social work management Proficient in implementing Signs of Safety practice model Strong leadership and team management capabilities Effective decision-making and risk management Excellent communication and collaboration skills Knowledgeable in relevant laws, policies, and statutory guidance Ability to work under pressure and handle complex situations Proficient in using IT systems and maintaining detailed case records