SEND Operations Manager

SEND Operations Manager📍 Middlesbrough (multi-site role)
💼 Full-time | Permanent
💰 £40,810 - £42,955 (term time + 5 weeks, flexibility considered)
About the RoleWe are seeking an experienced SEND Operations Manager to play a key strategic and operational role in delivering high-quality inclusive provision for children and young people aged 2-16.
This is a senior leadership position supporting the delivery of SEND and inclusion strategy across multiple education settings. It is particularly well-suited to individuals with a Local Authority SEND background or those with extensive experience in statutory SEND processes and inclusion leadership.
You will work at the centre of a multi-agency system-collaborating with education providers, families, local authority teams, and external professionals-to ensure children with SEND receive the right support, at the right time, in line with statutory requirements.
Key Responsibilities:
🔹 Strategic & Operational LeadershipLead and implement SEND operational processes across multiple settingsContribute to SEND and inclusion strategy and service improvementDrive consistency, quality assurance, and compliance with statutory guidance

🔹 EHCP Oversight & Statutory ProcessesOversee EHCP caseloads, including referrals, reviews, amendments and consultationsEnsure statutory timelines and quality standards are metProvide professional challenge where processes are not compliant

🔹 Quality Assurance & ImprovementDevelop and implement quality assurance frameworks for EHCPs and SEND provisionAudit casework and drive continuous improvement across servicesEnsure robust documentation and reporting for internal and external stakeholders

🔹 Multi-Agency WorkingAct as a key liaison with Local Authorities, health and social care professionalsRepresent the organisation at panels, forums, and multi-agency boardsBuild strong partnerships to improve outcomes for children and families

🔹 Complex Case ManagementSupport and lead on complex SEND cases, including tribunal preparationProvide guidance to leaders and practitioners on statutory SEND processesEscalate and resolve issues in line with legal frameworks

🔹 Funding & Resource ManagementOversee High Needs Funding applications and trackingSupport effective resource allocation and service commissioning (e.g. SALT, EP, OT)

About YouWe are looking for someone who:✔ Has significant experience in SEND statutory processes (EHCPs, reviews, tribunals)
✔ Understands local authority systems, policy, and multi-agency working
✔ Has led or contributed to SEND/inclusion strategy or service improvement
✔ Can confidently manage complex caseloads and competing priorities
✔ Is skilled in quality assurance, audit, and performance monitoring
✔ Can influence stakeholders and provide professional challenge at a senior level
✔ Is passionate about improving outcomes for children with SEND
Why Join Us?

Be part of a forward-thinking inclusion strategy across multiple settings
Work closely with experienced senior leaders in SEND and education
Opportunity to influence and shape system-wide SEND practice
Ongoing professional development and leadership support
Access to wellbeing support, pension scheme, and flexible working options
SafeguardingWe are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All roles are subject to enhanced DBS checks and satisfactory pre-employment screening.
Apply NowIf you are a SEND professional ready to step into (or continue within) a strategic, system-level role, we would love to hear from you.

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