Day Service Manager (Aspect)

Description

Job Title: Aspect Manager Job Location(s): Aspect Day Service Department: Day Services Reporting To: Day Service Operations Manager Contract Type: Permanent Salary Scale: Linked to HSE Consolidated Pay Scale: Workshop Manager (February 2026) €53,751.19 - €61,551.42 Hours: 37.5 hours per week Purpose: The purpose of this role is to manage the day-to-day operation of Aspect Day Service, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, person-centred supports to autistic adults. The Aspect Manager will be responsible for leading and supporting the staff team, overseeing individual support programmes and ensuring the service operates effectively in line with organisational policies, relevant legislation and best practice. Role: Service Management & Leadership • Manage the day-to-day operation of Aspect Day Service, ensuring the service meets the needs of the people supported. • Lead and support the staff team, including staff supervision, rotas, team meetings and performance management. • Maintain a strong presence within the service, providing guidance to staff and promoting good practice. • Promote a positive working environment, encouraging teamwork, clear communication and accountability. • Ensure appropriate staffing levels and resources are available for the effective running of the service. • Liaise with the Day Service Operations Manager and other relevant managers regarding service operations and any issues that arise. Service Delivery • Manage the service in line with Low Arousal Approaches, positive practice and other evidence-based approaches to supporting autistic individuals. • Oversee the development, implementation and review of individual support plans and programmes, ensuring they include clear, achievable goals and that progress is regularly monitored. • Support staff in understanding and responding appropriately to individual communication, sensory and behavioural support needs. • Promote a person-centred approach that respects individual choice, dignity and independence, while supporting meaningful participating in the community. • Coordinate multidisciplinary supports, including psychology, speech and language therapy, behaviour support and sensory integration, ensuring recommendations are implemented. • Maintain regular communication with individuals, families and their wider support networks, as appropriate. Quality Assurance & Service Development • Ensure the service operates in accordance with SOS Kilkenny’s policies and procedures, safeguarding requirements, relevant legislation and applicable national standards. • Ensure service delivery is in line with the principles of New Direction and person-centred planning. • Oversee risk assessments, incident reporting and the maintenance of accurate service records and documentation. • Review service delivery regularly and identify areas for improvement to ensure the service continues to meet the changing needs of individuals. • Coordinate and follow up on referrals to the service from the HSE and other relevant stakeholders. • Prepare reports and complete administrative duties associated with the role. This job description outlines the main duties and responsibilities of the role and is not an exhaustive list. Qualifications: • QQI Level 9 qualification in Autism Studies or an equivalent relevant qualification. • A relevant qualification in Leadership or Managing People at QQI Level 6 or higher, or equivalent. • Current CORU registration, where required by the relevant professional regulatory requirements. Experience: • Extensive experience in autism-specific service delivery, with a strong understanding of the diverse support needs of autistic adults. • A minimum of 3 years relevant management experience, preferably within autism, disability or health and social care services. • Proven experience in leading, supervising and managing staff teams, including staff development and performance management. • Experience supporting autistic adults with complex support needs, including communication, sensory and behavioural needs. • Experience working collaboratively with families, multidisciplinary professionals and other relevant stakeholders. Knowledge, Skills & Competencies: • Strong knowledge of evidence-based approaches to support autistic individuals, including Low Arousal Approaches, Positive Behaviour Support and understanding of individual sensory needs. Familiarity with Studio III approach would be an advantage. • Excellent leadership and organisational skills, with the ability to manage staff and day-to-day service operations effectively. • Strong knowledge of New Directions, person-centred planning, safeguarding requirements and relevant national standards for disability services. • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive working relationships with individuals, families and other professionals. • Ability to manage challenging situations, exercise sound judgement and respond effectively to changing service needs. • Strong planning, problem-solving and organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities. • Good report-writing and record-keeping skills, with attention to details. • Ability to work independently and as part of a wider management team. • Commitment to providing high-quality supports that promote individual rights, dignity and independence. Additional Requirements: • Full, clean Irish driving license. What We Offer • A rewarding and meaningful career where you can make a real difference. • Permanent, full-time and part-time positions. • Competitive salary aligned with HSE Consolidated Pay Scales. • Pension Scheme and Death in Service benefit. • Generous Annual Leave Entitlements. • Sick Pay Scheme. • Ongoing professional development and training opportunities. • Educational Assistance Scheme. • Bike to Work Scheme. • Employee Discounts. • Savings Scheme. • Award winning Health & Wellbeing Programmes. • Award winning Company Training. • A supportive, values-driven multidisciplinary team. • Positive and supportive work environments. Diversity & Inclusion SOS Kilkenny is an equal opportunities employer committed to an inclusive, diverse and respectful workplace. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds. Safeguarding All offers of employment are subject to Garda Vetting and reference checks. Application Please submit your CV, including explanations for any gaps in employment. Shortlisting will apply.