National Safeguarding Operations Manager

Scouts Shops Ltd; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 63,000; Full time

Job summary

A national charity is seeking an experienced National Safeguarding Operations Manager to lead safeguarding and vetting operations. This role involves shaping practices, guiding decision-making, and ensuring compliance with safeguarding standards. The ideal candidate will have significant management experience in safeguarding and strong case management skills. This hybrid position requires both in-office and remote work, aligned with a family-friendly policy and strong community values. Competitive salary and benefits package included.

Benefits

28 days holiday, rising to 32 days

Flexible working hours

Double-matched pension up to 10%

Generous family leave

Ongoing training access

Recognition for Charity of the Year

Qualifications

• Significant experience managing a safeguarding function.
• Strong case management and supervision expertise.
• Experience using data and analysis to improve safeguarding practice.

Responsibilities

• Lead the operational delivery of safeguarding and vetting across The Scouts.
• Provide expert oversight on complex cases.
• Develop and support managers and team members through coaching.

Skills

Managing a safeguarding function

Case management expertise

Excellent communication skills

Leadership

Data analysis for improvement

Job description

Job Title: National Safeguarding Operations Manager
Salary: £63,000 per annum (Band H, Level 3, Inclusive of Outer London Weighting & Market Supplement)
Location: Gilwell Park, Chingford, London (Hybrid working – 1 day present in office per week; includes in‑person Team Meetings/Trainings)
Contract Type: Permanent
Working Hours: 35 per week

About The Role

We’re looking for an experienced National Safeguarding Operations Manager to lead the day‑to‑day safeguarding and vetting operations across Scouting in the UK. This senior, influential role will shape practice, guide complex decision‑making and ensure the highest safeguarding standards are embedded across the Movement.

Responsibilities

• Lead the operational delivery of safeguarding and vetting across The Scouts.
• Provide expert oversight, supervision and direction on complex and high‑risk cases.
• Develop and support managers and team members through coaching, training and reflective practice.
• Shape and contribute to national safeguarding policies and procedures, ensuring legal and best‑practice compliance.
• Represent The Scouts at multi‑agency, statutory and court proceedings when required.
• Use data, insight and trend analysis to drive continuous improvement in safeguarding practice.
• Ensure 24/7 professional safeguarding advice is available to volunteers through on‑call arrangements.
• Build strong, collaborative relationships with statutory bodies, government and sector partners.

What you bring

• Significant experience managing a safeguarding function.
• Strong case management and supervision expertise.

You Are

• Personable, approachable and highly professional.
• Discreet, ethical and trusted with sensitive information.
• Flexible, open‑minded and solutions‑focused.
• Committed to delivering a high‑quality, people‑centred service.
• Experience using data and analysis to improve safeguarding practice.
• Confidence working with and supporting volunteers.
• Excellent communication, leadership and interpersonal skills.
• The ability to make risk‑based decisions and remain calm under pressure.

Benefits

• 28 days holiday (rising to 32 days after 2 years), plus extra days at Christmas.
• Flexible working hours.
• Double‑matched pension up to 10% of gross salary.
• Generous family leave and support as a family‑friendly employer.
• Access to our Learning & Development hub for ongoing training.
• Recognition as Charity of the Year (Charity Times Awards 2022).

For a full list of our benefits, see the full benefits page on our website.

Closing date for applications: 11:59 pm Friday, 30th January 2026

Interviews will be held in person at Gilwell Park, Chingford, on Thursday, 19th February 2026.

Strictly no agencies!

The Scouts is an equal opportunities employer, and we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. We offer flexible working arrangements to support diverse needs and lifestyles, ensuring that our teams can thrive both professionally and personally. We welcome and encourage applicants from all walks of life, believing that varied perspectives strengthen our innovation and community. Your unique experiences and ideas are essential to our success, and we look forward to hearing from all voices.