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Posted 08 August, 2026

Operations Director - Children's Residential Services

Area Camden
regents park, england, United Kingdom Full Time
Reference: 49459add-6d2e-43ef-a47a-0db321c844cf

Join Us as the Area Camden Operations Director & Responsible Individual!

Salary: Up to £80,000 per annum plus performance-related bonus

Hours: 40 hours per week

Location: Greater London

About Us

At Area Camden, part of the Polaris Community, we are on a mission to lead and develop high-performing residential children's services. With a stellar track record of achieving Good and Outstanding Ofsted outcomes since 2014, we are dedicated to creating safe, nurturing, and aspirational homes where children and young people can truly thrive.

Currently, we operate seven established children's homes, with plans to open two more as part of our ambitious growth strategy. This is your chance to influence the future direction of our organization while upholding the high standards that define Area Camden.

Why Join Area Camden?

Becoming part of Area Camden means joining a provider renowned for delivering high-quality care and achieving positive outcomes for children and young people. Here’s what we offer:

  • Proven Track Record of Excellence: Since 2014, we have consistently achieved Good and Outstanding Ofsted ratings, providing a stable environment for senior leaders to thrive.
  • Strong Systems and Operational Structure: Our well-established systems and processes allow you to focus on driving quality and performance.
  • Part of the Wider Polaris Community: Enjoy access to a range of specialist support services, including recruitment, HR, quality assurance, and safeguarding.
  • Experienced Leadership Team: Collaborate with seasoned operational leaders committed to maintaining excellence.
  • Opportunities to Influence and Shape Services: Play a key role in strategic decision-making and quality improvement initiatives.
  • Continuous Development: We are dedicated to your professional growth through training and peer support.

About the Role

As the Operations Director & Responsible Individual, you will report directly to the Managing Director, providing both strategic and operational leadership across our residential services. Your responsibilities will include:

  • Developing and delivering the organizational strategy in line with Polaris Community objectives.
  • Providing operational leadership across our seven existing children's homes and supporting the opening of two new homes.
  • Ensuring effective governance and regulatory compliance across all services.
  • Maintaining and enhancing the high standards of care that have led to our strong Ofsted outcomes.
  • Supporting and developing Registered Managers to achieve exceptional performance.
  • Monitoring operational, financial, and quality performance against agreed targets.
  • Building strong relationships with managers, staff, local authorities, and other stakeholders.

About You

We are looking for an experienced senior leader with a proven track record in residential children's services. Here’s what you need:

  • Significant senior leadership experience within children's residential care or closely related services.
  • Experience acting as a Responsible Individual within an Ofsted-regulated service.
  • A detailed understanding of children's residential legislation and Quality Standards.
  • Strong commercial and financial acumen.
  • Exceptional leadership and communication skills.
  • Experience in leading quality improvement initiatives.

Personal Attributes

  • An inspirational and visible leader.
  • A strategic thinker with a practical, solution-focused approach.
  • Highly motivated, resilient, and adaptable.
  • Committed to maintaining high-quality care standards.

What We Offer

  • Salary up to £80,000 per annum.
  • Performance-related bonus.
  • Company car or car allowance.
  • Opportunity to influence and shape strategic growth.
  • Supportive and collaborative senior leadership team.
  • Ongoing professional development and executive leadership support.

Apply Today!

Take the next step in your career and help shape brighter futures for children and young people across Area Camden. Join us in maintaining excellence and driving future growth!

Area Camden is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. All successful applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, the cost of which will be covered by Area Camden. We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

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