Residential Care ManagerLocation: Meath / LouthReports to: Director of ServicesRole PurposeThe Residential Care Manager will have overall responsibility for the effective leadership and management of a Children's Residential Care Centre, ensuring the provision of a safe, nurturing and stable environment for young people in care. The role requires strong regulatory knowledge, people leadership capability and a child-centred approach aligned with best practice and statutory requirements.Key ResponsibilitiesLeadership & Care DeliveryCreate, maintain and promote a safe, caring and stable environment for young people within the centreLead the delivery of high-quality, trauma-informed care in line with each young person's individual needsEnsure care programmes are developed in consultation with social work teams, implemented effectively and regularly reviewedPromote the rights, responsibilities and participation of young people within the servicePlan for each young person's future in collaboration with the young person, families, social workers and relevant agenciesRegulatory Compliance & GovernanceManage the centre in accordance with the Child Care Act 1991, National Standards for Children's Residential Centres, Children First Guidelines and all relevant legislationEnsure policies, procedures and health & safety documentation are in place, understood and adhered to by all staffMaintain robust child protection, safeguarding and incident-reporting proceduresEnsure an effective complaints process is in place and clearly communicated to young people, families, staff and external stakeholdersEnsure accurate, timely and professional record-keeping is maintained and available for inspection by regulatory authoritiesCare Planning & Service AgreementsEnsure each young person has an up-to-date care plan and placement plan developed in consultation with the social worker, key worker and the young personEnsure service agreements clearly outline roles, responsibilities, placement duration, review dates, and admission/discharge proceduresMonitor and review placement outcomes and ensure appropriate supports are in placePeople Management & StaffingRecruit, manage and retain suitably qualified staff to ensure safe and adequate staffing levels at all timesEnsure all staff have valid Garda Vetting, references and required qualifications prior to commencing employmentProvide regular supervision, support and performance management to staffLead, motivate and support staff in managing challenging behaviours, key working and emotional regulationEnsure staff training and development needs are identified and addressedMaintain staff records confidentially in line with employment legislationOperational & Financial ManagementOversee rotas, payroll returns and general administrative requirementsManage centre budgets and ensure young people have access to appropriate funding for clothing, activities, education and additional supportsEnsure effective systems are in place for financial oversight and accountabilityOn-Call & Emergency SupportParticipate in an on-call rota, providing guidance and support to staff outside normal working hoursBe available to respond to emergencies and critical incidents as requiredFacilities & Health & SafetyEnsure the centre, furnishings, equipment and grounds are maintained to a high standardEnsure compliance with fire safety, health and safety legislation and risk-management proceduresRegularly review practices impacting the safety and welfare of staff and young peopleCandidate Profile (Essential)Relevant qualification in Social Care, Social Work, Youth Work or a related discipline (CORU registration where applicable)Significant experience in children's residential care, including management or senior leadership levelStrong knowledge of Irish childcare legislation and regulatory standardsProven people-management and leadership capabilityExcellent organisational, communication and decision-making skillsFull driving licenceDesirableExperience managing centre openings or service developmentExperience working with Tusla and external regulatory bodiesPostgraduate qualification in management or leadershipAdditional InformationThis role requires flexibility, resilience and a strong commitment to safeguarding and best practice. The duties outlined above are not exhaustive and may be reviewed in line with service needs.