Service Manager - Counselling Services

The Service Manager - Counselling Services is responsible for managing the self-pay counsellingservice, ensuring the service is financially sustainable, client-focused, and aligned with Solent Mind'svision and values., Service Leadership & Development

• Implement the service plan, ensuring alignment with organisational strategy.
• Lead service improvement initiatives, embedding innovation and continuous development.
• Represent Solent Mind externally, building partnerships and promoting the service.
• Work with the Counselling Service Clinical Lead to ensure integration of clinical governance
into operational delivery.
• Build external partnerships with colleges, commissioners, funders, and community organisations
to expand reach and impact.Operational Management
• Oversee day-to-day running of the service, including referral pathways, client journey,
allocation of cases and scheduling.
• Work with marketing colleagues to promote the service and grow referrals.
• Manage counsellors, trainees, and associates, ensuring effective induction, supervision, and
CPD.
• Ensure compliance with policies, procedures, and professional frameworks (BACP, NICE).
• Ensure the maintenance of accurate records and reporting systems, including case
management software (Zanda).
• Monitor service performance, outcomes, and client satisfaction, reporting to senior leadership
and stakeholders.Financial & Sustainability
• Monitor budgets, income, and expenditure for the self-pay service.
• Contribute to pricing strategies, marketing, and business development.
• Identify funding opportunities and support grant applications or partnership bids., Act as safeguarding lead for the service alongside the Counselling Service Clinical Lead,
ensuring compliance with policies.
• Monitor incidents, risks, and complaints, ensuring timely resolution and learning.
• Ensure service delivery meets quality assurance standards and external benchmarks.
People & Culture
• Provide line management, supervision, and support to Associate Counsellors and Trainees.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and resilient team culture.
• Promote wellbeing and reflective practice across the service.
GeneralAdhere to the aims, values, policies and procedures of Solent Mind, particularly safeguarding and health& safety.This list is non exhaustive and other duties may be required to meet the needs of Solent Mind

Degree-level qualification in counselling or psychotherapy, or equivalent experience EssentialEvidence of CPD in leadership, management, or service development. EssentialBACP/UKCP membership or equivalent. EssentialSafeguarding training (Level 3+). EssentialManagement qualification (e.g., ILM, CMI). DesirableExperience:Proven experience in managing a medium to large scale self-pay counselling or Essentialmental health services. EssentialExperience of service development, strategic planning, and partnership working. EssentialExperience of financial management, budgets, and sustainability models. EssentialExperience of staff supervision, recruitment, and CPD frameworks. EssentialExperience of outcome measurement tools (CORE, PHQ-9, GAD-7). EssentialExperience of working with commissioners, funders, and external stakeholders. DesirableKnowledge/Skills/Competencies:Strong leadership and management skills. EssentialExcellent communication and relationship-building skills. EssentialAbility to balance operational delivery with strategic development. EssentialCompetence in digital systems and case management software. EssentialFinancial literacy and business awareness. EssentialMarketing and business development skills. EssentialKnowledge of NICE guidelines, regulatory and quality assurance frameworks. EssentialOther:Commitment Solent Mind's values and policies EssentialWillingness to undergo an enhanced DBS check EssentialInclusive, collaborative, and resilient leadership style EssentialProfessional integrity and accountability. EssentialFlexible and adaptable to service growth and change. EssentialInnovative mindset, open to new models of counselling provision Essential