Employer: Tees Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust
Job Title: Service Manager
Location: United Kingdom
Salary: £64,455 to £74,896 per annum
Job Type: Full-time
Closing Date: 19 November 2025
Job Summary
Tees Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust is seeking a Service Manager to operationally oversee a portfolio of mental health teams within the Health and Justice Services.
The successful candidate will be responsible for leading, inspiring, and overseeing the delivery of high-quality care across both community and prison-based mental health teams. This role includes supporting the mobilisation of new services, leading operational functions, and driving strategic development across several teams.
As a key member of the senior management team, the Service Manager will join at an exciting time as the Trust embarks on several service development initiatives. The post holder will play an instrumental role in the growth and success of current and emerging services.
Candidates should have experience working at a senior level in mental health services, a good understanding of the criminal justice system, and strong operational management skills. The ability to collaborate successfully across organisations and deliver service improvements is essential.
The post holder will ensure effective interfaces with the wider team and act as a visible, collaborative representative of TEWV Health and Justice Services, working closely with service managers and clinical leaders.
Main Duties of the Job
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Lead operational functions across multiple Health and Justice teams.
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Work with team managers and clinical leads to maintain the highest standards of safe care within criminal justice settings.
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Ensure performance, quality framework, and contractual requirements are consistently met.
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Provide leadership, direction, coaching, and hands-on management in quality, safety, finance, performance, partnerships, and governance.
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Engage in daily partnership working to address challenges and deliver effective services.
About the Organisation
Tees Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust places a strong emphasis on professional development, offering robust supervision, appraisal, and training.
The Trust’s Health and Justice Services also prioritise staff wellbeing, providing access to various activities and resources designed to support both individual and team welfare.
Job Description
Due to the nature of this role, applicants must be able to travel independently across the geographical area covered by Health and Justice and have access to a suitable vehicle for business use. Adjustments can be made under the Equality Act 2010, where necessary.
This position is ideal for candidates who enjoy tackling challenges, developing innovative services for people with mental health needs in the criminal justice system, and contributing to a dynamic leadership team.
Applicants should refer to the full job description and person specification before applying. Please note that additional prison vetting is required, which must be initiated immediately after receiving an offer of employment.
Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential:
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Degree-level (or equivalent) training in a health or management subject.
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Commitment to Continuous Professional Development with a proven record of achievement.
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Postgraduate management qualification or master’s degree (or willingness to work towards it), or equivalent experience and knowledge.
Desirable:
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Professional clinical qualification (e.g. RMN, Dip SW, OT) with experience in service design and management.
Experience
Essential:
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Strong experience in staff management and operational leadership.
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Proven record in project, service, and operational management.
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Budget management and financial accountability experience.
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Proven ability to manage performance and appraisals.
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Experience setting and meeting service delivery targets.
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Familiarity with clinical governance agreements and recruitment processes.
Desirable:
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Background in service development or redesign.
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Commitment to service evaluation and performance management.
Knowledge
Essential:
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Understanding of financial management within the NHS (including business cases, planning, and budget setting).
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Ability to analyse and interpret data for reporting and service planning.
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Knowledge of relevant legislation and its implications for management.
Desirable:
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Awareness of Quality Improvement Systems and tools.
Skills
Essential:
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Strong leadership and communication abilities.
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Capacity to manage key stakeholder relationships both internally and externally.
Desirable:
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Experience in audit and data collection.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This position is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975. A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is therefore required to review any previous criminal convictions.
Certificate of Sponsorship
Applications are welcome from candidates requiring Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship. All applications will be considered equally in line with UK Visas and Immigration guidelines.
From 6 April 2017, applicants applying for entry clearance into the UK must provide a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided in continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more during the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years) must also meet this requirement.
Further guidance can be found here: Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (opens in a new tab).
How to Apply
If you are interested in this role, please visit the official website for more information and click here to apply now.
