Job Description

Service Manager – Learning Disabilities & Autism

Location: Eastbourne, BN21, East Sussex, UK

Base Salary: to £45,000 per annum + bonus

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent, 40hrs a week

Start date: March 2026

Closing date: 28/03/2026 (interviews will happen on a rolling basis as applications are received, so may close earlier)

Employer: Pivotal People is exclusively recruiting for this role on behalf of our client

About the Opportunity: Service Manager

I am looking for a Service Manager to take the lead on a brand-new project in Eastbourne. The property has already been bought and is currently being tailored specifically for one young person with autism (PDA features) and moderate learning disabilities.

This is a business run with a family ethos running through it, that doesn't do "corporate." but is professional to a tee! They focus on getting the environment and the staffing right from day one, rather than trying to fix things later. This is a "ground-up" post where you’ll be responsible for recruiting your own team and setting the culture of the house. You aren't inheriting someone else's setup; you are building this from the start.

The Role & Rota Structure

• The Rota & Ratios: You will be primarily supernumerary. This home is set up for high-intensity support, starting at 3:1 and moving to 2:1 as the individual settles and builds trust with the team.
• Staffing Structure: There are two waking night staff, so there are no sleep-ins to worry about. I’m looking for a manager who has the time to actually lead and mentor their staff, rather than just covering gaps in the rota.
• The Transition: You’ll lead the final setup phase, ensuring the routines and the environment are exactly what this individual needs to feel safe and regulated.

Requirements: Who Fits This?

I need someone steady. You’ll have a background in complex autism and a real understanding of PDA. You need to be a manager who leads by example—someone who stays calm when things are challenging and knows how to keep a team focused on the person, not just the paperwork.

Crucially, you need to be someone who has the experience and the confidence to step in and work alongside your team when required. You aren't just an administrator; you’re a practitioner who can lead from the front if a situation needs your expertise.

Whether you are an established Service Manager or an experienced Deputy Manager (3+ years) ready for your first Registered post, the main thing is your approach to care. We need someone who sees "behaviour" as communication and reacts with common sense and kindness.

Benefits & Support

• Support: Local and area support and the benefits of a local HQ and a
• 23 days holiday (plus bank holidays),
• life insurance.
• discretionary annual bonus.

How to Apply

If you want a role where you have the autonomy to build a home the right way, let’s have a proper chat.

All offers of employment are subject to satisfactory references and DBS clearance.

Apply with your CV or call Mike Tait on 01903 963805 for a confidential conversation.