Target Housing
We're looking for a strategic, values-led leader to oversee the operational delivery of our Asylum Accommodation and Support Service across South Yorkshire, the Humber, Derby, and Nottingham. As Head of Operations, you will be the senior lead for a high-value, high-impact contract supporting some of the most vulnerable people in our society—asylum seekers in need of safe, dignified housing and compassionate support. Reporting directly to the CEO, you'll provide strategic oversight, manage risk and compliance, and work closely with national partners and local services to ensure the contract delivers real results. You'll work alongside a Service Manager who leads day-to-day operations, allowing you to focus on performance, quality, stakeholder engagement, and innovation. You'll also help shape and lead new services and projects aligned with the organisation's mission and the evolving needs of our communities.
This role is subject to Enhanced DBS and CTC clearance, a full valid driving licence, access to a roadworthy vehicle, and two satisfactory reference checks.
Main Purpose
As a key member of our Senior Leadership Team, the Head of Operations will provide strategic leadership and contract oversight for our Asylum Accommodation and Support Contract (AASC), delivering safe, compliant, and compassionate services to asylum seekers across South Yorkshire, the Humber, Derby, and Nottingham. You will take overall accountability for performance, compliance, risk, and stakeholder relationships relating to the AASC contract, while directly managing Service Managers responsible for day-to-day operational delivery. You will also contribute to organisational strategy, lead continuous improvement initiatives, and shape the development of complementary services that align with our values and mission. Contract & Service Leadership
Lead the strategic delivery of the AASC contract, ensuring all performance, compliance, and safeguarding standards are consistently met. Act as the senior point of contact for commissioners, national providers, and other key partners. Lead on contract reviews, audits, reporting, and external relationship management. Ensure compliance with regulatory, contractual, and organisational policies—including safeguarding, health and safety, and risk management. Team Leadership & Management
Provide clear leadership and line management to Service Managers across multiple locations. Support managers to build high-performing, resilient, and values-led teams. Promote a culture of continuous improvement and accountability. Ensure professional standards, wellbeing, and staff development across the services. Strategic Contribution
Collaborate with the CEO and SLT to shape organisational strategy and direction. Use data, insight, and service user feedback to inform improvements and innovation. Identify and support the development of new or complementary services that respond to emerging needs. Represent the organisation in forums, conferences, and sector networks. Governance & Financial Oversight
Monitor and report on contract budgets in line with financial plans. Prepare reports for the Board, funders, and external stakeholders as required. Support organisational governance, quality assurance, and risk management processes. The ideal candidate will have senior experience leading large-scale housing, asylum, homelessness, or public sector contracts, with the ability to engage with commissioners, regulators, and delivery partners at a senior level. A passion for social justice and improving systems for vulnerable people is essential. Desirable qualifications include experience with the AASC contract or similar national programmes, service transformation, or managing services across multiple sites and regions. Core Skills and Attributes
Customer Focus Developing & Coaching Others Planning & Organising Confidence & Judgement Integrity Communication & Influencing Team Work Flexibility What We Offer
28 days' annual leave, rising to 33 days (plus bank holidays) Flexible working options once up to speed Pension scheme (4% employer / 4% employee) Mileage reimbursement at 45p per mile Westfield Health Scheme covering optical, dental, mental health, and more Lifetime Financial Planning support A collaborative, purpose-driven leadership team The chance to create meaningful, lasting social impact
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As a key member of our Senior Leadership Team, the Head of Operations will provide strategic leadership and contract oversight for our Asylum Accommodation and Support Contract (AASC), delivering safe, compliant, and compassionate services to asylum seekers across South Yorkshire, the Humber, Derby, and Nottingham. You will take overall accountability for performance, compliance, risk, and stakeholder relationships relating to the AASC contract, while directly managing Service Managers responsible for day-to-day operational delivery. You will also contribute to organisational strategy, lead continuous improvement initiatives, and shape the development of complementary services that align with our values and mission. Contract & Service Leadership
Lead the strategic delivery of the AASC contract, ensuring all performance, compliance, and safeguarding standards are consistently met. Act as the senior point of contact for commissioners, national providers, and other key partners. Lead on contract reviews, audits, reporting, and external relationship management. Ensure compliance with regulatory, contractual, and organisational policies—including safeguarding, health and safety, and risk management. Team Leadership & Management
Provide clear leadership and line management to Service Managers across multiple locations. Support managers to build high-performing, resilient, and values-led teams. Promote a culture of continuous improvement and accountability. Ensure professional standards, wellbeing, and staff development across the services. Strategic Contribution
Collaborate with the CEO and SLT to shape organisational strategy and direction. Use data, insight, and service user feedback to inform improvements and innovation. Identify and support the development of new or complementary services that respond to emerging needs. Represent the organisation in forums, conferences, and sector networks. Governance & Financial Oversight
Monitor and report on contract budgets in line with financial plans. Prepare reports for the Board, funders, and external stakeholders as required. Support organisational governance, quality assurance, and risk management processes. The ideal candidate will have senior experience leading large-scale housing, asylum, homelessness, or public sector contracts, with the ability to engage with commissioners, regulators, and delivery partners at a senior level. A passion for social justice and improving systems for vulnerable people is essential. Desirable qualifications include experience with the AASC contract or similar national programmes, service transformation, or managing services across multiple sites and regions. Core Skills and Attributes
Customer Focus Developing & Coaching Others Planning & Organising Confidence & Judgement Integrity Communication & Influencing Team Work Flexibility What We Offer
28 days' annual leave, rising to 33 days (plus bank holidays) Flexible working options once up to speed Pension scheme (4% employer / 4% employee) Mileage reimbursement at 45p per mile Westfield Health Scheme covering optical, dental, mental health, and more Lifetime Financial Planning support A collaborative, purpose-driven leadership team The chance to create meaningful, lasting social impact
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