Service Manager – NHS Talking Therapies

• Lead the day-to-day operational management of NHS Talking Therapies services, ensuring delivery against access, waiting time and recovery targets
• Provide visible leadership to multidisciplinary teams, including Team Managers, Clinical Leads and data staff, ensuring clear accountability and performance oversight
• Work closely with the Trustwide Operational and Clinical Lead to plan, deliver and monitor service performance, identifying risks and leading corrective action where required
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with the Integrated Care Board (ICB), commissioners, primary care and wider system partners, providing regular and accurate performance updates
• Ensure robust clinical governance arrangements are in place, including risk management, incident investigation, complaints handling, audit and compliance with Trust policies and information governance standards
• Lead service improvement and transformation programmes, supporting the development of new pathways and models of care in line with Trust and Greater Manchester priorities
• Manage designated budgets and resources, ensuring effective use of funding, identification of cost pressures and delivery of efficiency plans
• Oversee workforce management, including recruitment, retention, supervision, appraisal and staff development, ensuring a skilled and compliant workforce
• Promote a positive and inclusive culture, embedding a just culture approach and maintaining high standards of professionalism, accountability and compassion
• Analyse and interpret service data to inform decision-making and drive continuous improvement in patient outcomes and experience
• Ensure compliance with NHS Talking Therapies clinical models, outcome measurement standards and national guidance
• Contribute to borough and Trust-wide strategic planning, business planning and service development
• Represent NHS Talking Therapies at local and system forums, contributing to wider mental health service development

• Generous annual leave entitlement for Agenda for Change and Medical and Dental staff.
• Flexible working opportunities to support your work/life balance
• Access to Continued Professional Development
• Involvement in improvement and research activities
• Health and Wellbeing activities and access to an excellent staff wellbeing service
• Access to staff discounts across retail, leisure and travel

Essential

• Degree or equivalent experience in health, social care, management or related field
• Evidence of continuing professional development (CPD)
• Postgraduate qualification (e.g. management, leadership, clinical) or equivalent experience
• Leadership or management qualification

Essential

• Significant experience in operational management within NHS or similar healthcare setting
• Experience of leading and managing multidisciplinary teams
• Experience of delivering against performance targets (e.g. access, waiting times, outcomes)
• Experience of financial and budget management
• Experience of workforce management (recruitment, appraisal, supervision, HR processes)
• Experience of working with external stakeholders (e.g. ICB, commissioners, primary care)
• Experience in NHS Talking Therapies / IAPT services
• Experience of leading service improvement or transformation programmes

Essential

• Knowledge of NHS Talking Therapies (IAPT) model and national guidance
• Strong understanding of clinical governance, risk management, and quality standards
• Ability to analyse and interpret performance and activity data
• Financial awareness and ability to manage resources effectively
• Excellent communication and influencing skills, including presenting complex information
• Ability to build effective partnerships across services and organisations

Desirable

• Knowledge of NHS systems (e.g. PC-MIS, PARIS or equivalent)
• Understanding of CQC standards and regulatory requirements

Essential

• Proven leadership skills with ability to motivate and manage teams effectively
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a complex and changing environment
• Demonstrates professionalism, accountability and integrity
• Ability to lead change and support service development
• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
• Promotes a positive and open culture aligned to a "just culture" approach

Essential

• Ability to participate in operational rotas
• Willingness to travel across localities as required