Full job descriptionService Manager (Interim - Homeless Services)
Location: Manchester
Rate: £300 per day (flexible up to £325)
Contract: 3 months (with potential extension to 6)
Sector: Housing Charity
The Opportunity
We are working in partnership with a leading youth homelessness charity, to recruit an experienced Service Manager to lead a portfolio of community-based (non-accommodation) services supporting young people.
This is a key interim leadership role during a period of organisational restructure, where you will provide strong operational oversight while supporting service development and continuous improvement.
The Role
As Service Manager, you will take responsibility for the day-to-day operational delivery of four services supporting young people aged 18-25.
This is a hands-on leadership role, combining operational oversight with a strong frontline presence.
Key responsibilities include:
*Overseeing the operational management of 4 services
*Direct line management of 4 Service Managers / Team Leaders
*Supporting wider teams, including Support Workers across services
*Driving performance, ensuring KPIs, outcomes and quality standards are met
*Maintaining a visible, hands-on leadership style, engaging directly with teams and services
*Monitoring and improving service delivery through data, reporting and quality assurance
*Supporting delivery through a period of organisational restructure, contributing to service redesign and development plans
*Embedding a culture that ensures services are inclusive, trauma-informed and person-centred
*Working collaboratively with senior leadership and external partners to ensure best outcomes for young people
Services
*Community-based / non-accommodation services
*Supporting young people aged 18-25
*Focus on housing support, independence and wellbeing
*Supporting individuals with complex and multiple needs
About You
We are looking for an experienced, confident operational leader who can step into a service during change and provide stability, direction and support.
Essential experience:
*Proven experience in a Service Manager / multi-service leadership role
*Strong background in housing and homelessness services
*Experience working with young people (18-25)
*A background in Social Work or Social Care is desirable
*Experience supporting individuals with complex needs
*Demonstrable experience managing multiple services and managers
*Strong operational management experience, including KPIs, performance frameworks and service quality
*Experience supporting or delivering organisational change / restructure
Highly desirable:
*Experience in community-based or non-accommodation services
*Experience within the charity / third sector
*Experience working in interim or fast-paced environments
What We’re Looking For
*A values-led leader
*Someone who can operate at a "Head of Service-light" operational level
*A hands-on, visible manager comfortable supporting both managers and frontline teams
*Strong people leadership - able to coach, challenge and develop others
*A proactive, solutions-focused approach during periods of change
Why Apply
*Opportunity to work with a nationally recognised charity making meaningful impact
*Play a key role in shaping services during a period of transformation
*Immediate start with potential contract extension