Head of Survivor Services Operations (Female Applicants Only)

Be Part of Meaningful Change
Rape Crisis South London (RCSL) is entering an exciting new chapter. With a strengthened leadership team and an ambitious vision for the future, we are building on our foundations to deliver a bold and impactful organisational strategy.

We provide confidential support for survivors of rape and sexual violence, including counselling, legal advocacy and casework, for women, girls and children from age 4 who live or work in South London, whatever their background. Our prevention work starts early, in classrooms, workplaces and community spaces, long before harm has a chance to happen. Whatever happened, and whenever it happened, survivors deserve to be believed and supported. RCSL is England and Wales's only Rape Crisis Centre solely dedicated to sexual violence, supporting women, girls and children

We are now seeking a Head of Survivor Services Operations to join our Survivors Service Directorate at this pivotal time on a permanent basis.

About the Role
This is an exciting opportunity to join Rape Crisis South London as our new Head of Survivor Services Operations. Reporting to the Director of Survivor Services, you will lead the operational performance, systems, reporting, and service infrastructure that enables survivors to access timely, high-quality support.

What You'll Do:

• Lead and improve operational systems and processes.
• Monitor performance, service demand, and key outcomes.
• Produce reports and insights for stakeholders and funders.
• Act as a Designated Safeguarding Lead.
• Deliver projects and initiatives that improve service effectiveness.

About You

You are an experienced and collaborative operational leader with a track record of managing complex services and driving continuous improvement. You are confident using data and insight to inform decision-making, comfortable leading change, and skilled at building productive relationships with a wide range of stakeholders. Most importantly, you are committed to delivering outstanding, survivor-centred services and improving outcomes for those who access support.

We are looking for someone with:

• Significant experience leading operational services.
• Experience managing performance, quality, and service delivery.
• Strong data analysis and reporting skills.
• Experience developing and leading teams and managers.
• Knowledge of safeguarding, compliance, and risk management.

Desirable

• Experience within the VAWG, charity, health, or social care sectors.
• Experience of contract or grant-funded services.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed practice.
• Experience delivering service transformation or improvement.
• Experience using performance and reporting systems.

What You Bring
You bring strong leadership, excellent communication, and the ability to influence and collaborate effectively with others. You are solutions-focused, resilient, and able to balance strategic thinking with operational delivery. You demonstrate sound judgement, a commitment to continuous improvement, and a genuine passion for supporting survivors through high-quality, inclusive services.

This post is open to women only (Schedule 9, Paragraph 1, Equality Act 2010). We particularly welcome applications from women underrepresented in leadership roles in the VAWG sector. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

Safeguarding and Safer Recruitment

Rape Crisis South London is committed to safeguarding survivors and service users. The post holder will contribute to maintaining the organisation's safeguarding standards.

This includes:

• Promoting the safety and wellbeing of children, young people and adults at risk
• Identifying and reporting safeguarding concerns
• Following organisational safeguarding policies and procedures
• Supporting a culture where everyone feels safe, respected and supported

Our safer recruitment processes include:

• Values-based interviews
• Verification of identity, qualifications and employment history
• Reference checks
• Enhanced DBS checks where required
• Safeguarding training and supervision
• Equality, Feminist Commitment and Values.

Intersectionality and Reasonable Adjustments

We recognise that experiences of sexual violence are shaped by intersecting factors such as:

• Race and ethnicity
• Disability
• Sexuality and gender identity
• Socioeconomic background
• Immigration status
• Faith and culture

Rape Crisis South London is an equal opportunities employer. We particularly welcome applications from women who are under-represented in leadership roles within the violence against women and girls (VAWG) sector. Our work is grounded in feminist principles, recognising sexual violence as both a cause and consequence of gender inequality. We centre survivor voices and prioritise empowerment, inclusivity and intersectionality.

We are committed to removing barriers and creating an inclusive workplace.

Applicants are encouraged to let us know if they require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, such as:

• Alternative interview formats or timings
• Additional time for written tasks
• Accessible documentation
• Support relating to disability, neurodivergence or health needs
  

Learning and Development

As a charity undergoing transformation and growth, we welcome colleagues who are committed to continuous learning and professional development.

Interview Process

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to a short interview or professional discussion, likely conducted via MS Teams.

Stage one: MS Teams interview with the Advocacy Service Manager, Interim Head of Advocacy and Director of Programme Transformation.

The interview will explore experience and approach to:

• Safeguarding
• Equality, diversity and inclusion
• Wellbeing and feminist practice
• Trauma-informed therapeutic work
• Leadership responsibilities relevant to the role

How to Apply

To apply, please email recruitment with the subject line 'Head of Survivor Services Operations'. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Please attach:

• Your up-to-date CV (PDF)
• A short Cover Letter (maximum 1000 words) identifying how you meet the essential and any desirable qualifications, skills and experience .

Confidentiality
All applications will be treated confidentially. Information will only be shared with the hiring manager and PCT.

Outcome

• All applicants will be notified of the outcome of their expression of interest once a decision has been made.
• Employees not selected will continue in their current roles and are encouraged to apply for future opportunities.

AI in Job Applications
We understand some candidates use AI tools when applying. Whilst we welcome the use of technology to support clear communication and structure, we want to learn more about you, so please ensure that your application reflects your own skills, knowledge and experiences

Thank you for your interest in RCSL. If you have not heard from us within one month of the closing date, please assume your application has been unsuccessful.
We encourage you to follow us on LinkedIn for future opportunities and updates.