Adult Social Care Financial Services Leader

About the Role:

We are seeking an experienced and visionary leader to take on the role of Service Lead for Social Care Financial Services.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership: Provide direction and leadership across multiple service areas, including Community and Residential Care financial assessments, Deferred Payments, Direct Payments, Independent Personal Budgets, Appointeeship and Deputyship, and Brokerage.
  
  Develop a clear strategic vision and operational plan for the Social Care Financial Services to meet current and future demands.


• Transformational Change: Initiate and manage transformational change within the service, driving improvements in efficiency, service delivery, and quality.
  
  Implement new policies, processes, and digital systems to ensure services are modern, responsive, and fit for purpose.


• Compliance and Governance: Ensure all services comply with statutory regulations, including the Care Act 2014, The Care and Support (Deferred Payment) Regulations 2014, and The Care and Support (Direct Payments) Regulations 2014.
  
  Interpret and implement both local and national policies to ensure the Council meets its statutory responsibilities cost-effectively.


• Performance Management: Develop and implement a performance framework that aligns with service delivery goals and benefits rationalisation.
  
  Regularly review and improve systems and processes to ensure continuous improvement in service outcomes.


• Policy Development: Lead the creation, review, and implementation of key policies related to Client Financial and Charging, such as Contributions Policy, Charging Policy, Deferred Payments, and Top Ups Policy.
  
  Ensure these policies are regularly updated and compliant with current legislation.


• Resource Management: Oversee the effective management of resources, including budget management, staff allocation, and workload prioritisation.
  
  Ensure the Council's income is maximised through efficient and accurate processing of caseloads and collaborate with the Corporate Debt Management Team to reduce outstanding client debt.


• Complex Case Management: Apply discretion and expert judgement in managing complex cases, including property ownership, deprivation of assets, and debt recovery.
  
  Lead the investigation of probate, trusts, and wills in cases of non-payment of care.


• Stakeholder Engagement: Work closely with the Council's Finance, Income, and Legal Teams to develop strategies for debt recovery, and respond to Local Ombudsman complaints related to Client Finance and Charging Services.

Requirements:

• Experience: Proven experience in leading financial services or social care operations, with a strong background in managing large teams and complex service portfolios.


• Knowledge: In-depth understanding of relevant legislation, including the Care Act 2014, and regulations governing social care financial services.
  
  Experience in policy development and implementation is essential.


• Skills: Exceptional strategic planning, leadership, and communication skills.
  
  Ability to manage change effectively, drive performance, and engage with a wide range of stakeholders.


• Qualifications: Relevant professional qualifications in social care, finance, or a related field.
  
  Continuous professional development in line with best practices is expected.