About Us Are you ready to lead and grow within an organisation that is passionate about providing exceptional care? At SDR, we specialise in supporting adults with Autism and learning disabilities, operating 8 residential homes and 3 supported living settings. With ambitious plans to expand our bespoke supported living services, we’re seeking a visionary Head of Adult Specialist Care to drive operational and strategic excellence. Unlike many providers, SDR offers a unique environment—a relatively small, dynamic head office with direct and daily access to Board members. This role provides an unparalleled opportunity to make a real impact while shaping the future of a growing organisation. Learn more about us at www.sdrgroup.co.uk The Opportunity This is a highly autonomous role that blends operational management with strategic leadership. Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, you’ll be responsible for leading our teams, enhancing quality standards, and supporting the growth of innovative supported living services. If you’re a driven leader with a passion for delivering outstanding care and achieving ambitious goals, this role offers the chance to develop and evolve alongside a growing organisation. The Location Head Office (Falmer, East Sussex) with travel to services in Hampshire, East Sussex, West Sussex. What You’ll Be Doing Lead, inspire, and develop a team of six direct reports, fostering a high-performing culture. Set up and manage new services. Ensure quality compliance, achieving and maintaining Outstanding CQC ratings. Hold the provider registration for the Support Living division Drive occupancy rates, manage costings/negotiations, and secure fee uplifts with commissioners. Conduct service user assessments and develop tailored care plans. Oversee financial performance, including division P&L, budgets, and financial planning. Act as an ambassador for SDR, representing the organisation in the market and with stakeholders. Deliver strategic projects, such as assessment programs and service improvement initiatives. What We’re Looking For Skills and Experience Essential : Expertise in service user assessments and delivering tailored care solutions. Experience in developing care plans aligned with individual needs. Proven capabilities of achieving Good to Outstanding ratings with the CQC. Strong project management skills, including budget management and financial planning. Practical experience and knowledge of Autism, Learning Disabilities, and Epilepsy. Leadership and team-building expertise, with success in recruiting and retaining high-performing teams. Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities. Proven experience building relationships with stakeholders, commissioners and external partners. Existing network of contacts in commissioning and related organisations. Sound knowledge of HR process and employment law. Level 5 Health and Social Care Leadership qualification. Full UK driving licence and own vehicle. Desirable : Experience in other social care sectors, such as elderly care. Ambition and capacity to progress into a senior leadership position. Personal Attributes Passionate about delivering high-quality, person-centred care. Visionary and inspirational leader who thrives in an autonomous role. Excellent problem-solving and negotiation skills. Calm, composed, and resilient under pressure. What We Offer Competitive salary: £50,000 - £65,000 (based on experience and qualifications). Annual discretionary bonus 25 days AL (plus Bank Holidays) Opportunities to shape and grow innovative care services. Supportive environment that encourages creativity and professional development. Company pension (3% employer contribution and 5% employee contribution, if eligible) Benefits available upon completion of probation include: Group life insurance (4x salary). Private Medical insurance (subject to underwriting). Company sick pay. Comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme. As a growing company, we are committed to continually reviewing and enhancing our benefits. Core Values At SDR, our values are at the heart of everything we do. The Head of Adult Specialist Care is expected to embody and promote the core values of SDR: Kindness, Dignity & Respect: Treat everyone with kindness, dignity, and respect to create a fulfilling and rewarding work environment. Calmness: Approach challenges and decisions with calm and composure to deliver effective solutions. Creativity: Encourage and embrace creativity to find innovative ways to enhance service delivery. Responsibility: Take ownership of actions, attitudes, and outcomes while supporting career development and team growth. Ready to Apply? If you’re excited about this opportunity, we’d love to hear from you Please ensure that you attach your CV and fully respond to the application questions. Join us in shaping the future of specialist care No Agencies please.