Title

WORKFORCE

Operations Manager – Northern Area

West Sussex County Council

£58,263 to £62,271 plus benefits

Based in Horsham

A relocation allowance is offered (subject to qualifying terms and conditions)

Reference AS00035

Lead and manage a customer-focused function at a time of major change in health and social care.

The role

West Sussex County Council is moving fast to implement important new changes in adult social care, including a major service redesign. As one of three Area Operations Managers, you'll be at the forefront of our transformation, leading teams to implement a range of strategies, programmes and policies across the northern area of the county, within a challenging financial context.

This is a demanding role that means ensuring service continuity while meeting challenging change and quality targets. Including Crawley, Gatwick, Horsham, and Mid Sussex, you'll work in close partnership with two new clinical commissioning groups in shaping approaches to care that are both proactive and integrated.

The person

This role would suit a qualified social care professional with a high level of professional proficiency and senior management experience. A good understanding of the national context for changes in health and social care provision is important, as is experience of shaping and delivering change initiatives.

Along with the ability to develop strong working relationships, both inside and outside the organisation, you'll be experienced in managing and motivating others. Financial and business management skills are also key.

The organisation

Providing services to a population of over 800,000, West Sussex County Council is a large and forward-thinking local authority. We offer an excellent quality of life in a semi-rural yet culturally rich area of Southern England with excellent links to central London, Gatwick Airport and the coast.

Apply

For more information and to apply, please email WestSussexResourcing@tmpw.co.uk or phone Ben on 0117 923 4482

WORKFORCE

What local leadership needs to thrive

By Robin Rogers | 27 August 2026

Reflecting on the Government’s preference for three unitaries for Oxfordshire and West Berkshire, Robin Rogers says new councils must work across boundaries,...

WORKFORCE

When familiarity becomes the bigger risk

By Ben Parsonage | 27 August 2026

Ben Parsonage discusses the importance of assessing for leadership potential beyond traditional career paths.

WORKFORCE

Turning a new unitary into a home

By Michael Coughlin | 26 August 2026

Michael Coughlin says reorganisation offers councils a rare opportunity to redesign structures, culture, relationships and services for communities.

WORKFORCE

Getting staffing right in LGR

By Ian Miller | 26 August 2026

New Government guidance still leaves councils navigating complex staffing, TUPE and legal considerations during the local government reorganisation, warns Ia...