Community Services Manager - Countywide Mental Health Services

Job summary

An exciting opportunity has arisen within Devons Adult Mental Health Social Care services as we continue to develop and respond to both current and future service needs. We are seeking a motivated and experienced individual to take on the role of Community Services Manager, leading the delivery of high-quality, person-centred care across Devon as part of our Section 75 Partnership arrangements with Devon Partnership Trust.

In this key position, you will work closely with the Head of Social Work/Social Care, Devon Partnership Trust (DPT) to drive forward our improvement journey, providing strategic leadership and operational management to teams delivering care for adults with enduring mental health needs. You will be responsible for workforce planning, budget management, service development, and ensuring effective partnership working with Devon Partnership Trust, ICB, NHS, voluntary, and independent sector organisations.

Main duties of the job

Key Responsibilities: Lead and manage countywide mental health social care services. Oversee commissioning, contracting, and review of services funded by Devon County Council and partner organisations. Manage and support a diverse workforce, ensuring staff are supervised and developed in line with council policies and professional standards. Develop and maintain effective partnerships with statutory, independent, and voluntary sector organisations. Contribute to strategic planning, service development, and innovation in care provision. Ensure compliance with statutory frameworks, best practice, and governance requirements. Promote the wellbeing and safety of people aged 18 to 64 (and occasionally over 64 with primary mental health needs). Oversee effective hospital discharge processes and transitions for young people preparing for adulthood.

About You

Educated to degree level or equivalent, or hold an appropriate professional qualification (e.g. social work, nursing, occupational registration). Significant experience managing complex health or social care services. Strong leadership, communication, and negotiation skills. Experience in budget management and achieving financial targets. Knowledge of current and developing health and social care policy, legislation, and best practice. Ability to work collaboratively with a range of partners and stakeholders. Commitment to delivering excellence in customer care and promoting a positive, inclusive culture.

About us

What we can offer you

• We are committed to yourCPD.

• We offer26 days annual leave, plus Bank Holidays, rising to 31 days after 5 years service.

• Recognition of NHS continuous servicefor contractual annual leave purposes, sick pay entitlement and Maternity/Adoption & Paternity pay entitlement (within DCC Terms & Conditions)

• Flexible working opportunitiesare available.

• Generous Local Government Pension Scheme.

How to apply

When completing your application form, provide a supporting statement which demonstrates how you meet the essential and desirable criteria as described in theperson specification of the job description. Applications may not be taken forwards if the supporting statement is not adequately completed.

Interview Date: 26th January 2026

• DCC embraces the positive benefits of a diverse workforce. More information can be found onourEquality and Diversity webpages.

• Happy to Talk Flexible Working

• This role requires the ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence and fluency in English.

• Personal data we collect from you will be processedin accordance withtheApplicant privacy notice.

• For more information about Working for Devon please visitour Working for Devon page.

• We cannot consider visa sponsorship at this time. UK Right to Work isrequired. For further guidance on right to work in the UK, please visit:Work in the UK - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).

• This role requires a DBS disclosure.