PIC (Home Manager) – Children's Residential Care: New Centre. New Approach.
Moville, Co. Donegal
Salary: €60,000 - €68,000 + €3,000 signing bonus (post-probation)
Expected Start Date: February/March 2026 (earlier start possible to support registration and set-up)
Contract: Full-time, permanent
About Best Care Residential
Best Care is a new children's residential organisation in Donegal. We aim to create a safe, trauma informed home for young people aged 12 to 17 who need stability, care and support. Our work is grounded in our core values of Belonging, Excellence, Support, and Trust.
We are now recruiting a Person in Charge who will lead our first centre through registration and into full operation. This is a rare opportunity to help shape a new service from the very beginning.
Role Summary
The Person in Charge will hold responsibility, authority and accountability for the quality and safety of care delivered within the centre. The PIC will ensure compliance with the Child Care Regulations 1996, National Standards for Children's Residential Centres 2018 and all relevant legislation.
You will lead a staff team, support trauma-informed practice, oversee care planning and ensure that young people experience a high standard of care, stability and support.
This role will suit a confident and experienced leader who thrives in a purposeful, values-driven environment.
Key Responsibilities
Care and Support
* Ensure Personal Plans, Placement Plans, Risk Assessments and Behaviour Support Plans are up to date and implemented
* Promote a trauma informed, relationship based approach to care
* Support young people to develop life skills, wellbeing and independence
* Ensure the centre provides a safe, nurturing, child centred environment
Regulation and Compliance
* Lead the Tusla registration process for the centre
* Maintain full compliance with National Standards and Children First
* Ensure high quality documentation, audits and records
* Prepare the service for inspections and respond to any findings
* Adhere to the centre's Safety Statement and all policies and procedures
Leadership and Team Management
* Lead, mentor and supervise staff
* Manage rosters, cover, training and staff welfare
* Hold monthly team meetings and reflective practice sessions
* Build a positive staff culture based on accountability, respect and care
* Work collaboratively with the governance team and NED
Operational Management
* Oversee daily operations across shifts
* Ensure effective communication between staff and management
* Liaise with external professionals including Tusla social workers, schools and clinical supports
* Organise and participate in reviews, planning meetings and case discussions
Qualifications and Experience Required
Essential
* Level 7 or Level 8 degree in Social Care, Social Work, Youth and Community, Psychology or a related field
* Minimum four years post qualification experience in a children's residential setting
* Management or leadership qualification in social care or healthcare
* Experience supervising staff and managing a care team
* Strong safeguarding knowledge and confidence in regulatory requirements
* Full clean driving licence and access to a vehicle
Skills and Competencies
* Strong leadership and team management skills
* Excellent judgement and decision making
* Ability to remain calm, professional and reflective under pressure
* Strong communication, documentation and organisational skill
* Ability to build positive relationships with young people, families and staff
* Passion for trauma informed, strengths based practice
Benefits
* Salary 60,000 to 68,000 depending on experience
* Signing bonus of 3,000
* Supportive governance structure with NED and external consultant for managerial support
* Professional development and training in trauma informed practice
* Staff wellbeing focus
* Opportunity to shape a new service from the beginning
* Career progression as the organisation grows
How to Apply
Apply through Indeed or by sending your CV and cover letter to:
You can also learn more at:
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: €60,000.00-€68,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Company pension
* On-site parking
* Sick pay
* Wellness program
Education:
* Bachelor's (required)
Experience:
* Care Home Manager: 2 years (required)
Work authorisation:
* Ireland (required)
Work Location: In person