Director of Operations – Adult Social Care – #OR104722

Job Description

Thurrock Council is seeking an experienced Director of Operations for its Adults and Health directorate, based at the Civic Offices in Grays, Essex. This is a senior interim leadership role paying £298.81–£401.60 per day via Prism, with a start date of 22 June 2026.

Reporting to the Executive Director: Adults and Health, you will manage the development and delivery of adult social care across Thurrock. Key responsibilities include leading the adult social care programme transformation office, overseeing new models of care in Tilbury and Chadwell, shaping service delivery priorities, and ensuring high-quality, cost-effective outcomes for vulnerable adults with complex needs. You will lead on partnerships across public, private, voluntary and community sectors, co-ordinate with Commercial Services and Commissioning, and advise Cabinet and Portfolio Holders on service strategy.

You will hold full budget accountability for the service, provide strong leadership to departmental staff, and deputise for the Executive Director as required.

Applicants should be educated to degree level with a recognised professional qualification (degree or diploma in social work or CQSW desirable), and demonstrate at least two years’ experience in a middle or senior management position within adult social care. You must have a strong track record of inter-agency working, financial awareness, equalities leadership, and complex problem-solving under sustained pressure. Enhanced DBS clearance is required.

To be considered for this senior interim opportunity, please get in touch today.

What’s on offer:

* Excellent, competitive pay rates – paid weekly
* Supportive management team with approachable, experienced leaders
* A desirable location with great transport links
* A stable, well-resourced, and encouraging working environment

Why join Semester.co.uk?

* Free ongoing CPD and training opportunities to enhance your skills
* Competitive rates of pay with prompt, reliable payments through our in-house payroll
* Enhanced DBS processing included
* Dedicated, friendly consultant offering tailored support
* Access to a wide range of opportunities in your chosen location

Ready to take the next step? Click ‘Apply’ now to express your interest in this role, or explore other exciting opportunities with Semester.co.uk.