Service Manager

Job description

£55,000 depending on experience | Full Time | Sobell Lodge – Tonbridge “It’s more than a job – it’s about creating a home where every person can live life their way.” That’s how one of our Service Managers describes their role at Leonard Cheshire. If you’re an experienced care leader with a strong understanding of safeguarding, excellent management skills, and a passion for person-centred care, we’d really love to hear from you. A Home, Not Just a Service Sobell Lodge is a specialist registered residential care home providing support for 23 adults with physical disabilities, complex needs, and sensory impairments. At Sobell Lodge, we work together to create a positive, inclusive home where people are empowered to make their own choices, develop skills, and enjoy meaningful connections within their local community. Your Working Hours This is a full-time role, typically working Monday to Friday, with occasional weekends to support the effective running of the service. What You’ll Do As Service Manager at Sobell Lodge, you’ll lead with passion, professionalism, and empathy to ensure your service runs smoothly and delivers exceptional care. You will: Provide clear leadership, management, and supervision for your staff team Ensure compliance with CQC standards and health & safety requirements Deliver person-centred, high-quality care focused on independence and choice Manage budgets and maintain a financially sound service Oversee recruitment, training, and performance development Drive continuous improvement and positive outcomes for residents Hold registration for the service This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real impact while further developing your leadership career in a respected national charity. What Helps You Shine Here Recognised nursing or social care qualification and registration (as appropriate) Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care (or equivalent) Proven management or supervisory experience within a care environment Strong communication, organisational, and people leadership skills Sound understanding of safeguarding and regulatory compliance Confidence in managing budgets and operational priorities Experience across a range of departments (e.g. therapies, catering, administration) is advantageous Why You’ll Love Working Here At Leonard Cheshire, you’ll find a workplace where your leadership truly makes a difference. We’ll support your wellbeing, personal growth, and professional development every step of the way. You’ll also enjoy a great range of rewards and benefits, including: 33 days annual leave (25 days plus 8 bank holidays), increasing by 1 day for each completed year of service, up to a maximum of 38 days. Stream – access up to 40% of your earned pay before payday Free Blue Light Card – enjoy exclusive discounts and perks Free DBS check Excellent contributory pension scheme with 3x salary life cover Generous annual leave, with the option to buy and sell leave Cash Health Plan – claim back dental, optical, and other healthcare costs Comprehensive training and recognised qualifications Career development through apprenticeships and leadership programmes Cycle-to-work scheme (salary sacrifice) Employee Assistance Programme – 24/7 wellbeing support About Leonard Cheshire For over 75 years, Leonard Cheshire has supported disabled people to live, learn, and work as independently as possible. We provide residential care, supported living, and community-based services across the UK – all focused on choice, inclusion, and empowerment. With over 1,600 people supported every day, our mission is simple: to help people live life on their own terms. Ready to Apply? Leonard Cheshire welcomes applications from all sections of the community. We actively encourage applications from people with disabilities and will support your requirements for reasonable adjustments wherever possible. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk. A satisfactory disclosure check (PVG membership in Scotland, or equivalent) and references are required for this position Visa sponsorship is not available at this time. Applicants must have the unrestricted right to work in the UK at the time of application. We are unable to progress applications from candidates who require sponsorship or are awaiting a visa decision