Team Manager Review

In my role I have manager oversight of a team or managers who in turn manage a selection of supported living placements. Day to day I monitor safeguarding incidents, communicate with local authorities, plan strategic interventions, monitor recording processes, supervise staff, manage disciplinary concerns and develop the organisation in terms of growth and compliance

I have just completed my level 5 in leadership and management which has developed my skills in understanding a variety of methods when leading a team and helped me to reflect on my management style to be more adaptable. I have also completed a number of internal workshops that have helped me to develop skills in managing my time effectively.

I really believe in the organisation and the ethos of the work that we do. I have a strong team around me and enjoy working alongside them. The company has a culture where everybody has a voice that is considered and respected and it is refreshing to be able to share opinions without them being dismissed

The induction process was a little disorganised because there was a change of assessor almost immediately which delayed starting to complete my work however following this my assessor was very structured and regularly met with me. Unit planning was flexible and there was always an opportunity to use recent and relevant experiences in reflective account which made demonstrating knowledge easier.

My manager is very supportive of my apprenticeship and regularly enquires about my progress and if I require further support. I am able to take 4 hours a week to complete my apprenticeship should I need to and there are others from the HR team who are willing to guide, support and mentor when necessary

My tutor would meet with me every 4 to 6 weeks and was always encouraging and supportive but also understanding when I was unable to meet deadlines. If I needed support I was able to email and normally receive a detailed response the same day which was helpful on a few occasions. I really enjoyed working with my tutor and feel that her attitude towards my learning was supportive and she understood my needs and style of learning well

My apprenticeship is perfect for my role and the level that I am performing and during my apprenticeship I have been promoted to my current role from a team leader position. I have put in to practice the use of varied management styles and supervision theories in my role to overcome challenges and ensure that others are mentored when they experience challenges so that they receive value from their role

There have not been any company events due to the coronavirus pandemic however before this happened we were often invited to the head office for a working lunch which would be provided. Normally at these events there are team building exercises. I often attend networking seminars with local authorities with whom we work however I view this as a part of my role. When I am not working I generally spend my time with my family and am not always available for extra-curricular activities.

Yes

Safe Haven are an honest employer who have an ethos and vision that is similar to my values. Many of my friends who are experienced and working within this sector share my values and understanding and would enjoy working for an inclusive holistic employer such as Safe Haven Accommodation. Similarly, Safe Haven would benefit from the knowledge and experience of my aquaintances

When applying for Safe Haven, do not be afraid to mention your limitations, honesty is an attribute that Safe Haven values and then during your interview, remain relaxed and give as much example that relates to the interview questions as possible. When receiving an induction, remain open to learning even if your are quite experienced. The processes used are specific and detailed but there is also an element of self learning and this will be easier if the induction has been listened to.