Operational Manager

Job overview

An exciting secondment opportunity has arisen for the position of Operational Manager within the Health and Justice Service. This role will involve strategic and operational oversight of a Cat C and Cat D male prison's intergrated mental health service  , ensuring high standards of care, safety, and service delivery.

The Health and Justice Service encompasses a diverse range of secure care environments, including:

• HMP Risley
• HMP Thorn Cross
• HMP Manchester
• HMP Styal
• HMP Buckley Hall
• HMP Forest Bank
• OPD service
• Liason and diversion
• Approved Premises

This position offers a unique chance to contribute to the development and continuous improvement of Health and Justice services, working closely with multidisciplinary teams to support recovery-focused care and rehabilitation.

Main duties of the job

The Operational Manager will lead the day-to-day and financial operations of a designated area within the Health and Justice Services. This leadership role is central to ensuring that services run efficiently, safely, and in alignment with strategic goals.

The post holder will maintain a strong and visible presence across the service, engaging actively with both staff and service users. As a role model and advocate for recovery and positive change, they will foster a culture of continuous improvement and person-centred care.

A key responsibility will be to uphold and enhance the quality of care delivered within their area, achieved through the implementation and monitoring of performance standards, and by supporting the ongoing development of the workforce.

Working in close partnership with clinical colleagues, the Operational Manager will ensure that all care and interventions are responsive to the needs of service users and contribute meaningfully to their recovery journey.

In addition, the post holder will act as deputy to the Service Manager, providing leadership cover when required, and will report to the Head of Operations as necessary.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

See attached detailed job description and person specification:

Staff benefits

• Pay Enhancements – 30% additional for Evenings (8pm onwards) and Saturdays and 60% additional for Sundays and Bank holidays.
• 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays rising to 29 after 5 years and 33 days after 10 years
• Excellent pension
• Cycle to work scheme
• Salary sacrifice car scheme
• Wellbeing programme
• Blue Light Card Discounts