Location: Wicklow and Kildare

Reports To: Clinical Governance Lead / Senior Management Team

Role Summary

The Person in Charge (PIC) is responsible for the overall management, leadership, and governance of the residential service, ensuring the provision of high-quality, person-centred care for individuals with ASD and ID. They oversee compliance with HIQA regulations, lead the staff team, manage resources, and promote a safe, supportive environment that enhances the well-being and independence of residents.

Key Responsibilities

Governance, Leadership & Service Management Provide strategic leadership to ensure the delivery of high-quality, person-centred residential services. Ensure full compliance with HIQA regulations, the Health Act 2007, and all other relevant legislation. Develop and implement policies, procedures, and best practices in line with regulatory requirements. Lead the service’s risk management strategy, ensuring robust safeguarding measures are in place. Conduct regular audits, self-assessments, and quality improvement initiatives. Act as the Designated Person in Charge under HIQA, ensuring effective governance structures. Resident Welfare & Person-Centred Support Oversee the development, implementation, and review of Individualised Care Plans (ICPs) to meet residents’ unique needs. Promote an inclusive, rights-based approach, ensuring residents are actively involved in decision-making. Foster a therapeutic and low-arousal environment to support residents with ASD and ID. Ensure all supports are trauma-informed, promoting well-being, dignity, and quality of life. Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams, families, and external professionals. Staff Management & Development Provide supervision, training, and performance management for staff, ensuring professional development. Promote a positive team culture, supporting staff in delivering high-quality care. Ensure adequate staffing levels, rostering, and workforce planning. Oversee recruitment, induction, and retention strategies. Address HR issues, grievances, and disciplinary matters in line with policy. Regulatory Compliance & Quality Assurance Ensure the service meets HIQA’s Residential Standards for Disability Services. Lead in the preparation for HIQA inspections, addressing findings and implementing corrective actions. Ensure timely and accurate reporting of incidents, complaints, and safeguarding concerns. Monitor compliance with health and safety policies, fire safety protocols, and infection control. Implement audit systems to review documentation, care plans, and risk assessments. Financial & Resource Management Oversee the budget and financial planning for the residential service. Ensure efficient use of resources, including staffing, equipment, and facilities. Manage residents’ personal finances, ensuring transparency and adherence to legal guidelines. Develop funding proposals and liaise with funding bodies as required. Communication & Stakeholder Engagement Act as the primary point of contact for families, guardians, and advocacy groups. Maintain strong working relationships with HSE, HIQA, external agencies, and service providers. Represent the organisation in inter-agency meetings, case reviews, and policy discussions. Promote community integration and ensure residents have access to meaningful social opportunities.

Essential Qualifications & Experience

A Level 7 or 8 qualification in Social Care, Nursing, Psychology, Occupational Therapy, or a related field. Minimum of 3-5 years of management experience in a residential or disability service. In-depth knowledge of HIQA regulations, the Health Act 2007, and disability service standards. Experience in budget management, staff leadership, and strategic planning. Training in Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), crisis intervention, and safeguarding is an advantage.

Key Competencies

Leadership & Decision-Making: Ability to manage complex situations and make informed decisions. Regulatory Compliance: Strong knowledge of disability services legislation and HIQA requirements. People Management: Proven ability to lead, supervise, and motivate staff teams. Risk & Crisis Management: Skilled in handling safeguarding concerns and challenging behaviours. Communication & Advocacy: Excellent interpersonal skills to engage with stakeholders and advocate for residents.

Additional Requirements

Based in Ireland A Level 7 or 8 qualification in Social Care, Nursing, Psychology, Occupational Therapy or a related field. 3-5 year’s management experience in a residential or disability service In-depth knowledge of HIQA regulations, the Health Act 2007 and disability service standards A proven track record of managing a residential service which meets quality, regulatory/legislative requirements. Experience of report writing personal support plans, risk assessments, people, and roster management, budget management.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits

Bike to work scheme Company events Company pension Continuous Professional Development (CPD) Birthday Leave Trainings provided to meet the Regulation standards Employee assistance program