Stepping Stone House provides a safe place for children and young people (age 12- 24) at risk or experiencing homelessness so they can begin to heal, build resilience, create connections and become the very best they can be.

We are currently looking for an Operations Manager - ITCH (Intensive Therapeutic Care Homes) for a 9-month fixed term contract, maternity leave cover.

In your role as Operations Manager - ITCH you will manage the effective operations of the Intensive Therapeutic Care Houses of Stepping Stone House.

Key Responsibilities:

Deliver high-quality residential services within the Intensive Therapeutic Care (ITC) program.

Design and implement innovative, evidence-informed practices that promote safety, stability, and wellbeing for young people.

Ensure service delivery meets all compliance obligations under the DCJ contract.

Conduct regular one-on-one supervision and coaching sessions with each Coordinator

Build the leadership capability of Coordinators through mentoring in decision-making, communication, problem solving, and performance management.

Provide professional development feedback and identify training needs aligned with service goals and individual growth.

Lead the development of annual training plans for ITC staff that align with DCJ requirements and SSH’s therapeutic frameworks.

Review all High and Critical Incident reports and assess the need for additional interventions.

Act as the primary operational contact for the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) for all matters relating to ITC service delivery.

Contribute to the development of annual Operational plans that align with SSH’s organisational objectives and strategic direction.

Manage income and expenditure in line with approved budgets and DCJ contract funding models.

Ensure all SSH ITC Houses maintain full compliance with the NSW Office of the Children’s Guardian (OCG) Standards 1–12.

Knowledge, Qualification & Experience:

Tertiary qualifications in a relevant discipline such as Social Work, Psychology, Youth Work, Community Services, or a related social science field. Postgraduate qualifications will be highly regarded.

A minimum of 3 years' experience in a senior leadership or operational management role, ideally within Out-of-Home Care (OOHC), Intensive Therapeutic Care (ITC), or a related child and family welfare service.

Comprehensive understanding of the legislative, compliance, and accreditation frameworks relevant to residential care services in NSW, including Office of the Children’s Guardian (OCG) and Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) standards.

In-depth knowledge of trauma and attachment theory, and their application in working with young people who have experienced complex trauma, neglect, and/or abuse.

Demonstrated experience leading high-performing teams, including coaching, performance management, and staff development within a care or support environment.

Proven ability to develop and manage effective, trauma-informed rosters and operational systems that ensure staff coverage, therapeutic integrity, and cost efficiency.

Strong skills in relationship and stakeholder management, with a track record of working collaboratively with funding bodies, government agencies, and community partners.

Hold a current Working with Children Check (NSW) and National Criminal History Check, and demonstrate an ongoing commitment to child safety and safeguarding practices.

Highly developed communication, analytical, and decision-making skills, with the ability to manage competing demands and lead during periods of change or crisis.

Work with us and you will enjoy:

Salary Packaging benefits

Performance Incentive scheme

Employee Assistance Program

Time off in lieu and RDO options

Flexible work arrangements

Training, development and succession planning

Remuneration

The position will be paid at SCHADS Level 7 – Pay Point dependent on experience and qualification level.

Stepping Stone House is a Child Safe Organisation and puts the safety and welfare of our young people first in all the work we do. All safety checks will be prioritised through the recruitment process.