Fostering Service Manager

Foster Care Associates (The FCA)Fostering Service ManagerSalary: Up to £50,000 per annum, dependent on experienceLocation: Ivybridge, DevonLatest Ofsted Inspection: Outstanding - 2026BenefitsCompany car or £2,000 car allowance30 days' annual leave, increasing to 35 days with length of service, plus bank holidaysLife AssuranceEmployee Discount SchemeMedical Cash PlanFree on-site parkingOngoing professional developmentSupportive, family-friendly working environmentHelp transform the lives of children and young people across Cornwall and PlymouthJoin Foster Care Associates, one of the UK's leading independent fostering agencies and part of the Polaris Community. With an Outstanding Ofsted rating and a strong reputation for supporting children, Foster Parents and staff, we are looking for a motivated and enthusiastic Fostering Service Manager to join our friendly and supportive South West team.About UsFounded by a former Foster Parent and social worker in 1994, Foster Care Associates (The FCA) is an established fostering agency and forms part of the Polaris Community, one of the UK's leading communities of children's services providers.The business was born from a passion for delivering fostering services that make a positive difference to the lives of looked-after children. Our first office was based in the Worcestershire countryside, where our head office remains today.We have come a long way since those early days. Over the years, The FCA has built a strong reputation for excellence and now offers a wide range of services to children and families. Our purpose remains the same: 'to make a positive and lasting difference for children, families and communities'. This is underpinned by a series of values designed to help children and young people reach their full potential.Today, we are one of the country's largest and most experienced independent fostering agencies while remaining committed to providing personal, responsive support to every child and Foster Parent.About the RoleAs Fostering Service Manager, you will work closely with local authorities to effectively manage, develop and promote social work services within your remit. You will be accountable for the operational, regulatory and financial performance of the service.Reporting directly to the Registered Manager, you will provide positive and strong leadership to your team, ensuring high-quality care for children and young people while supporting and empowering our Foster Parents.Retention and Support: Build strong, trusting relationships with Foster Parents to enhance retention and satisfaction, ensuring they feel valued and supported at every stage of their journeyWellbeing and Engagement: Foster a culture of empathy and support, prioritising the wellbeing of staff and Foster Parents and creating a positive, inclusive environmentCommercial Growth: Develop and implement strategies to support the commercial growth of the agency, helping to ensure long-term sustainability and stabilityLeadership and Development: Lead a dedicated team of social workers, support their professional development and maintain high standards of practiceQuality Assurance and Compliance: Ensure the service meets regulatory standards, with a focus on continuous improvement and good practiceStakeholder Engagement: Work collaboratively with local authorities, commissioners and other external partners to promote the agency and strengthen relationshipsAbout YouWe are looking for a compassionate, resilient and inspiring leader with a commitment to delivering positive outcomes for children, young people and Foster Parents.A recognised social work qualification and current registration with Social Work EnglandExperience of supervising and supporting staff, including managing performance, promoting development and maintaining high standards of practiceSignificant experience in fostering or children's social care managementComprehensive working knowledge of relevant fostering legislation, policies and safeguarding proceduresStrong written communication skills, with the ability to produce clear, analytical and high-quality reportsStrong leadership and team-management skillsExcellent communication skills and a commitment to trauma-informed, relationship-based practice when supporting children, young people and Foster ParentsFlexibility and willingness to travel as part of the role, including occasional overnight stays if requiredA full UK driving licenceJoin us in making a meaningful difference to the lives of children, young people and Foster Parents while helping to build on the success and continued development of a high-performing fostering service.For an informal discussion about this opportunity, please contact Peter Churchill on .Please apply to be considered for this opportunity.No agencies, please.Foster Care Associates is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates.Foster Care Associates has Disability Confident Employer status through Jobcentre Plus.Foster Care Associates is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff to share this commitment.The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS check. PandoLogic. Category:Social Services, Keywords:Adoption Manager, Location:Ivybridge, ENG-PL21 9QP