Operations Director

Care Dorset

Dorset (with travel across services)

  • Location Dorset (with travel across services)
  • Sector Local Government
  • Client Care Dorset
  • Job Type Permanent
  • Salary/Remuneration Circa £80,000
  • Reference GSe120334.1
  • Closing Date TBC

Care Dorset’s vision is “A world where people can thrive”. Since launching in October 2022, we have grown as a local authority trading company wholly owned by Dorset Council, delivering reablement, supported living, residential care, day opportunities and extra care services. Alongside high-quality care, we are building a strong, inclusive organisation where colleagues can develop meaningful careers.

We are now seeking an experienced Operations Director to lead and continuously improve service delivery across our operational portfolio.

The role

This is a senior leadership role with responsibility for translating Care Dorset’s strategy into operational reality. You will ensure services are safe, person-centred, financially sustainable and aligned with our values, while building a culture of accountability, belonging and visible leadership.

You will lead Area Managers and operational teams, drive improvement programmes, strengthen governance and compliance, and work collaboratively with corporate colleagues and partners to improve outcomes for people who use our services.

Key responsibilities

  • Provide strategic operational leadership, delivering quality, performance and financial objectives across all service models.
  • Lead transformation activity, including service redesign, estate development and digital enablement.
  • Embed Care Dorset’s Target Operating Model to support long-term improvement and consistency.
  • Ensure strong governance, safeguarding and regulatory compliance, working closely with Customer Experience and Governance teams.
  • Use performance data and insight to drive continuous improvement and manage risk.
  • Build a positive, inclusive culture through coaching, visible leadership and workforce development.
  • Oversee operational budgets, staffing models and resource use to ensure value for money and sustainability.
  • Build trusted relationships with commissioners, families and partners, representing Care Dorset with professionalism and care.

About you

You will bring senior operational leadership experience within adult social care or a closely related environment, with a strong understanding of CQC regulation and the wider legislative framework. You will be comfortable leading large, dispersed teams and managing complex operational portfolios.

You will also demonstrate:

  • Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage a wide range of stakeholders.
  • Sound judgement and confidence in decision-making in fast-paced environments.
  • A collaborative leadership style that supports and develops others.
  • Strong financial and resource management capability.
  • High personal integrity and a clear commitment to values-led, person-centred care.

Experience as a Registered Manager, leadership development delivery, coaching or mentoring qualifications, and a full driving licence are desirable.

Why join Care Dorset

This is an opportunity to shape a growing organisation with the backing of Dorset Council, while retaining the agility and innovation of a trading company. You will play a key role in improving services, supporting colleagues and delivering better outcomes for local communities.

If you are motivated by purpose, improvement and people-centred leadership, we would welcome your application.

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Further info

For more details please contact our search partner Ben Parsonage (ben.parsonage@gatenbysanderson.com) for more details. 

Continue to full details and apply

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