Head of Operations - Children's Residential Social Care

Head of Operations - Children's Residential Social Care
We are seeking an experienced and driven Head of Operations to join our senior leadership team. Reporting directly to the CEO, you will play a critical role in overseeing operations across the organisation, ensuring exceptional service delivery, operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and sustainable growth.
This is an exciting opportunity for a strategic leader with significant experience in residential childcare and healthcare operations who is passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of young people.
At Odyssey Social Care, we are dedicated to providing exceptional residential care and support for young people across Ireland. As part of the Broadlake Group, an international organisation employing over 4,000 people across Healthcare, Technology, FMCG, Workplace Wellbeing, Engineering, Office Services, and International Talent Solutions, we are committed to delivering positive and sustainable growth while making a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. [HOO Job spec OSC | Word]
Our ambitious 3X10X Strategy focuses on growing the essential services we provide threefold while increasing our positive impact tenfold. This vision is supported by our HAVE pillars:
Happy Places
Accessibility for Everyone
Value in Our Community
Environmental Urgency
About this role
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership
Lead and oversee all operational activities across the organisation.
Ensure services are delivered to the highest standards of quality and care.
Develop and implement operational strategies, policies, and processes.
Drive continuous improvement and operational efficiency.
Strategic & Commercial Performance
Deliver strategic initiatives aligned with organisational objectives and budgets.
Monitor and analyse operational performance, KPIs, and financial targets.
Provide data-driven insights and recommendations to support business growth.
Contribute to the development and delivery of long-term organisational strategy.
Leadership & People Development
Lead, coach, and support senior management teams.
Establish clear performance expectations and accountability.
Foster a culture of collaboration, engagement, and high performance.
Champion organisational values and leadership principles.
Quality, Compliance & Care Standards
Ensure compliance with TUSLA standards and all relevant legislation.
Promote best practice across residential childcare services.
Maintain robust governance and quality assurance processes.
Stakeholder Engagement
Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
Represent Odyssey Social Care at meetings, events, workshops, and industry forums.
Promote the organisation and its mission across the sector.
About You
Essential Requirements
Minimum 3 years' experience within the Residential Childcare sector in Ireland.
Proven experience in a senior leadership role within a healthcare or care environment.
Strong understanding and experience of working to TUSLA standards.
Demonstrated success in leading teams and driving organisational performance.
Strong commercial awareness and experience managing KPIs and operational targets.
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
Full clean driving licence and willingness to travel nationally.
Personal Attributes
Strategic and results-oriented leader.
Proactive and hands-on approach.
Strong organisational and prioritisation skills.
Excellent relationship-building and influencing abilities.
Passionate about delivering positive outcomes for young people.
What We Offer
Competitive salary package
Life Cover
Health Insurance
Pension Contribution Matching
Employee Assistance Programme
Professional Training & Development Framework
Team Building Days & Company Social Events
Wellness Initiatives
Cycle to Work Scheme
Refer-a-Friend Bonus
25 Days Annual Leave
What you will need
Required criteria
- A minimum of 3 years' experience working within the Residential Childcare sector in Ireland
- Experience in a senior leadership role within a healthcare, social care, or residential childcare organisation





