Area Service Manager

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Area Support Manager to join our Operations team within one of our larger supported living services. This role supports services delivering 5,000–6,000+ hours of support per week and/or services operating across multiple geographical locations.

Working closely with – and deputising for – the Registered Manager, you will provide leadership, oversight and quality assurance across regulated and non‑regulated supported living services for adults with learning disabilities and/or autism.

This is a pivotal role that enables service growth while maintaining high standards of care, compliance, financial control and person‑centred practice. It is also an excellent development opportunity for those looking to progress their career within social care and make a meaningful impact on the lives of the people we support.

• Provide visible, values‑led leadership across support workers, team/service managers and administrators (where applicable).
• Role model positive practice, professionalism and inclusive leadership.
• Support recruitment, supervision, appraisal and vocational development of staff.
• Deputise for the Registered Manager as required.

• Ensure services consistently meet and exceed CQC, contractual and regulatory requirements.
• Lead and prepare for CQC inspections, contract monitoring visits and internal audits.
• Proactively identify and mitigate risks, ensuring accurate notifications and reporting.

• Oversee the development and review of high‑quality, person‑centred care and support plans.
• Promote choice, independence and wellbeing.
• Work collaboratively with families, advocates and representatives.

• Build, support and retain high‑performing teams.
• Promote training, professional development and positive workplace culture.
• Act as a resource and coach to managers and frontline staff.
• Support the Registered Manager with budget management and efficiency planning.
• Monitor financial performance, identify overspends and support recovery actions.

• Ensure robust application of the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 in supported living environments.
• Promote a strong safety culture without compromising tenancy rights or freedoms.

• Maintain effective communication with internal teams, external agencies, commissioners, regulators and stakeholders.
• Act as a professional ambassador for the organisation.
• Drive ongoing improvements in service quality, outcomes, environments and performance.
• No direct budget holding authority; authority is delegated through the Registered Manager.
• Expected to deliver support hours when required and, where possible, cover uncovered shifts to maintain service continuity.
• Weekend working and unsociable hours form part of the role.
• Flexibility is essential to ensure full oversight of the service across the week.

• Social care management qualification.
• Strong knowledge of relevant regulations and standards.
• Excellent understanding of the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974.
• Working knowledge of employment law.

• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Confident report writing and data interpretation.
• IT literate (MS Office, Teams, Outlook, SharePoint).
• Commitment to person‑centred, safe services.
• Ability to develop care, support and risk management plans.

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in a supervisory or care management role.
• Experience with in adult, specialist adult or children’s social care.
• Working with social workers and primary care professionals.
• Previous CQC / CI / CIW / RQIA registration.
• Registered Manager award or equivalent.
• Experience leading regulated services or supported living provision.
• Financial awareness and ability to interpret management accounts.
• Investigation, safeguarding and chairing meeting experience.

Complete your details and attach your CV and an optional Covering Letter. Unfortunately, if you are not contacted within 5 working days of your application, it means that you have not been shortlisted on this occasion.

If you have any questions about our services including how to make a referral or the career opportunities with Iris Care Group, please complete our Get in Touch form.