Role:
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Business Operations Manager to lead the mobilisation and operational development of new residential childcare services across the North of England, based in Newton Aycliffe. Reporting to the senior leadership team, you will be responsible for embedding service excellence, ensuring regulatory compliance, and driving operational success in line with the organisation’s vision and values.

As the Responsible Individual (when required), you will ensure new and existing services meet the highest standards of care, safeguarding, and performance. This is a pivotal leadership role within a progressive and purpose-driven provider, offering the opportunity to influence real change and improve outcomes for children with complex needs.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a values-led organisation committed to innovation, child-centred practice, and continuous improvement in therapeutic residential care.

About You:
We are looking for a strategic, compassionate leader who is:

• Experienced in children’s residential care with a deep understanding of regulatory frameworks (including Ofsted requirements)

• A confident leader with a hands-on approach to service development and team management

• Holding or working towards Level 5 in Leadership & Management in Residential Childcare (or equivalent)

• Knowledgeable in safeguarding, compliance, and quality assurance processes

• Skilled in driving service improvement through data, outcomes tracking, and reporting

• Able to build strong relationships with local authorities, social workers, and regulators

• Inspirational in leadership style—able to coach, mentor, and motivate diverse teams

• Committed to child-centred care and delivering services that are safe, nurturing, and trauma-informed

• Flexible and resilient, with the ability to adapt quickly in a fast-paced, evolving environment

What’s On Offer:

• Salary of £65,000 per annum

• £5,000 annual car allowance

• 35 days annual leave, with additional days awarded at 2 and 5 years of service

• Private Medical Insurance and Medicash health plan

• 24/7 GP access, cashback on optical and dental treatments

• Pension contributions and life assurance (2x salary)

• £1,000 employee referral bonuses

• Monthly Wilderness Heroes staff recognition scheme

• Access to retail and leisure discounts and tailored local perks

• Flexible 40-hour workweek (Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm) with occasional flexibility as needed

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the mobilisation and delivery of new residential services across the region

• Act as Responsible Individual where required, ensuring full compliance with regulatory standards

• Embed the organisation’s vision and values into all aspects of service delivery

• Oversee operational governance, reporting, and performance across new services

• Monitor and improve service outcomes, quality, and child-centred practice

• Support and mentor managers and teams to meet care, compliance, and business targets

• Work closely with clinical, education, and outdoor teams to deliver holistic support

• Develop strong working relationships with Ofsted, social workers, and commissioning teams

• Promote a culture of continuous improvement, learning, and accountability

About the Client:
Our client, A Wilderness Way, is a specialist provider of residential childcare services for children with complex needs. With a strong therapeutic ethos and a commitment to outdoor learning, they deliver trauma-informed care in nurturing, rural settings. This is a forward-thinking organisation that places children’s wellbeing at the centre of everything they do and offers genuine opportunities to innovate and grow within the sector.

Recruitment Timeline:
Start Date: As soon as possible (subject to notice period and onboarding)

How to Apply:
To apply, please complete the form below and include an up-to-date CV.

For a confidential discussion about the role, please contact Will on will@hamptonsresourcing.com or 01926 695215.

Equality Statement:
Hamptons is passionate about equality and is committed to developing an inclusive workforce. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant and will support any reasonable adjustments during the application and hiring process.