Are you a strategic leader with a passion for transforming the lives of vulnerable young people? Our client, a well-established not-for-profit organisation, is seeking a Residential and Specialised Support Manager to lead and grow a suite of programs that support young people across Central Queensland. This position can be located in either Rockhampton or Gladstone.

This is an opportunity to manage a portfolio, build strong partnerships and deliver best practice services for young people transitioning through residential care, post-care and specialised support.

About the Role

Reporting directly to the CEO, the Residential and Specialised Support Manager will oversee the organisation’s 24/7 Residential Care services and Specialised Support programs, including:

• Residential Care: Delivering trauma-informed care for young people in therapeutic home settings.
• Next Step Extended and Post-Care Support: Assisting young people aged 15–25 as they transition out of care.
• Individual Placement Support (IPS): Providing tailored in-home and community-based services for young people in the child protection system.

You’ll be responsible for leading a team, ensuring operational excellence, meeting licensing and accreditation standards and driving service expansion.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, manage and expand residential and specialised support programs across Central Queensland
• Oversee service quality, staff performance, compliance, and operational effectiveness
• Provide strategic direction and support for Residential Care Coordinators, House Managers, and specialised support staff
• Foster partnerships with government departments and community providers
• Maintain program compliance with all relevant legislation, contracts, and accreditation frameworks
• Ensure positive outcomes for young people through a trauma-informed, person-centred approach
• Lead funding submissions and tender applications to support program growth
• Monitor budgets and financial performance in line with contract expectations
• Champion a culture of safety, continuous learning, and staff wellbeing

About You

You’re an experienced and driven manager with a strong background in child protection, residential care, or youth services. You’re passionate about creating real outcomes for young people.

You’ll also bring:

• A Degree in Social Work, Psychology, Behavioural Sciences or a related field
• Minimum 5 years of experience in a senior management role in community or child protection services
• Deep understanding of trauma informed care, child development, and therapeutic practices
• Strong financial acumen and operational oversight capability
• Experience managing government contracts, service agreements, and compliance frameworks
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• Proven ability to lead, coach and support multidisciplinary teams across dispersed locations
• A proactive, solution-focused mindset with a strong outcomes orientation

Additional Requirements

• Current Blue Card (Working with Children) and Yellow Card (or eligibility to obtain)
• COVID-19 vaccination as per public health requirements
• Queensland Open Driver’s Licence (or equivalent)
• Willingness to travel as required

Why join Our client?

• Strategic leadership opportunity with real community impact
• Purpose-led, supportive and dynamic organisational culture
• Competitive salary aligned to Level 8 SCHADS Award + super + salary packaging
• Opportunity to shape and grow innovative programs across Central Queensland
• Join a team deeply committed to the wellbeing and future of young people

Ready to make a lasting difference in the lives of young people? Apply now or call Mel Ireland with your questions, 07 3239 2598.
#SCR-melanie-ireland

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