Peter
Operations Manager, South & West Devon
What does your role involve?
A lot! In my locality I have responsibility for resources such as Youth Support, Devon Action for Youth, Family Resources, Care Leavers, Sure Start, Extended Schools and Child Concern Pathways. The major part of my job is supporting and leading managers at the frontline; they do a difficult job and need support. I am also responsible for helping develop new initiatives, like health based training.
I monitor the performance and budget which can be complex, but it does help to provide services for children who need support and care with limited resources. I find that it is important in this role to try and make it real and have definite outcomes which are as tangible as possible.
How did you become an Operations Manager?
I was a frontline team manager for about 15 years and it seemed like a natural career progression. I had a wide and varied career at the frontline and changed jobs often enough to keep myself interested and get a broad sweep of the profession. I really think that you get a lot of management experience actually working as a Social Worker; you learn how to get the best out of people without dominating them.
What learning and development opportunities have you had?
Before I took on this role I completed a Certificate and a Diploma in Management Studies and I took part in a Joint Agency Leadership course. In this role I now contribute to training courses and I think that I have a large amount to contribute to new and even experienced workers in social care. I also took time out to get some life experience; it is always helpful to think about your own experience and use it as a reflective template.
What keeps you working for Devon County Council?
Devon is my home county; it’s an area that I know. Its a beautiful part of the world and a great environment to work in. Its nice to be able to go to the beach, or the moor so easily! I feel like I have a responsibility to make my community better for people. I think that really we are all the same, but some people are in more advantageous circumstances. I have had a lot of opportunities and feel that I have a duty to help balance things out.