EKAYA HOUSING ASSOCIATION Head of Corporate Services

EKAYA HOUSING ASSOCIATION Head of Corporate Services Recruitment Pack March 2015

24 Cornwall Road Waterloo London SE1 8TW 020 7620 3048 rec@thehousingexecutive.com Re: Head of Corporate Services Thank you for requesting information about this exciting role. As consultants to Ekaya Housing Association, The Housing Executive aim to provide you with comprehensive information to enable you to structure your application. If you would like to discuss any aspect of this post in confidence, please call Tony Clark on the above number. Recruitment Timetable: Closing Date: Wednesday 25 th March 2015 Ekaya Interview Date: Wednesday 8 th April 2015 Testing: Online exercises may be conducted before interview To Apply: You should submit the Ekaya Application form (see separate document): Please complete all sections Use Section 8 Reason for Applying to make it clear how you meet the criteria marked as essential on the person specification, as well as any evidence that you have to meet the criteria indicated as essential/desirable The application includes a diversity monitoring form which will be separated by HR Application forms can be sent by email to: rec@thehousingexecutive.com Or by post to: The Housing Executive, 24 Cornwall Road, London SE1 8TW. ALL applications will be acknowledged by email, telephone or post. If you do not receive an acknowledgement within 2 working days of sending it, please contact this office on 020 7620 3048. We look forward to receiving your application - do call if you have any queries about the process. Thanks again for requesting this pack and your interest in Ekaya Housing Association. Kind regards Tony Clark Director Page 2 of 14

Letter from the Chief Executive Dear Applicant Re: Head of Corporate Services for Ekaya Housing Association Thank you for expressing an interest in the above role with our organisation. As you will see from the information below, Ekaya is a well-established Housing Association, with a strong mission to serve a mainly BME community, a determination to remain independent and a drive to pursue growth opportunities - where this can be done without risk to the core business. We have a strong financial footing, have operated at a surplus for several years and will continue to provide good quality services, primarily to black and ethnic minority women and their families. This Head of Corporate Services role will provide strategic and operational management across key service areas including Human Resources, Office Facility Management, Quality Assurance and our subsidiary Nursery. We are looking for an outstanding individual with a commercially driven, innovative approach who can take the service to the next level. You will have the ability to lead, motivate and develop staff, and a passion for improving outcomes within the respective teams. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive and working closely with the Senior Management Team and the board, this is an ideal opportunity to lead and develop the Corporate Services activities in Ekaya and demonstrate a business case for your ideas and put them into action, grow the respective services for the benefit of customers and stakeholders. You should have a track record of success in Corporate Services, operating at Senior Management level, be able to lead and be committed to providing high quality, specialist services for all customers - attaining a high standard of achievement against performance indicators. I look forward to your application. Best wishes, Jackie Adusei Chief Executive March 2015

EKAYA: BACKGROUND AND CORPORATE Ekaya Housing Association was founded in 1987 and provides housing and support services south of the Thames. The Association has grown considerably, providing its primary client base, consisting of young single black mothers, with quality housing and support services. Ekaya provides temporary hostel accommodation as well as permanent homes, shared ownership and has a subsidiary Nursery. Based near the Oval in London, Ekaya currently has over 400 homes and manages accommodation on behalf of other registered social landlords. Ekaya also owns 11 other houses for young mothers and their children and manages a further 2 properties on behalf of other RSLs. The Association is governed by a voluntary board, whose experience encompasses social housing, business, support services and finance which include a Resident Board members with personal experience of Ekaya which assists in critically evaluating Ekaya s service provision. Overall there are currently 37 paid staff. Ekaya has year on year improved performance and takes pride in the continuous achievement of providing good quality housing, support and childcare provision services to a primarily BME community. The way Ekaya have changed lives within the Teenage Parents services and childcare provision in an era of economic downturn is testimony to their commitment to promote real localism through the provision of meaningful services to meet local community needs. As a business, Ekaya is committed to maintaining independence and knows that this can only be achieved by providing Value for Money and good quality services, a key objective which it strives to achieve. FINANCIALS Ekaya reported a record surplus for the year ending 31st March 2013 and has a sound financial projection and viability. Ekaya Group s balance sheet remains strong with an asset base in excess of 42m, cash balances of 3.5m and a rental stream of 4.3m. Ekaya Group s balances means it is in a position to pursue opportunities as they arise. Based on last year s performance it is confident in achieving the financial projections set in the 5 year business plan. BACKGROUND TO THE RECRUITMENT Finance & Resources - initially covered by one senior management team member has grown over the years; it now oversees a broad remit which includes financial management, corporate services, Human Resources, Office Management, Health & Safety, Risk Management, Audit, Corporate events, our Subsidiary Nursery and Information Technology. Over the years, Ekaya has had the desire to split this role in recognition of its growth and to assist and drive Business Performance, to support the Board and CEO to explore new and improved existing service provision. to this, is to develop Ekaya s brand and its niche products. Ekaya is now in a position financially and strategically, to progress this vision and believe this will be a positive step to support Ekaya to embrace new opportunities and improve its business opportunities. The new roles are: Head of Corporate Services and Head of Finance & Information Technology. Page 4 of 14

HEAD OF CORPORATE SERVICES The Head of Corporate Services will have a crucial role to play in the success of the organisation s strategic vision. Working with a small team, the post holder will take a strategic view of developing Corporate Services to the next level. You will be a critical support to strengthen the senior management team and provide strategic and operational management across key service activities: Human Resources, Quality Assurance and Nursery Services. Human Resources Remit To provide an effective Human Resources service and training support to the Association. To be proactive in ensuring that Human Resources issues are dealt with appropriately and resolved as quickly as possible. To review, update and add to policies and procedures primarily Human Resources and Health and Safety. To maintain and promote high standard of service and value for money. Quality Assurance Remit To support and practice Ekaya s main objectives and provide quality assurance duties to ensure the organisation delivers continuous service improvements and performance in service delivery towards continuous improvement attaining value for money service. To act as the Lead Officer and co-ordinate, develop and implement a consistent and effective Quality Assurance function for the Corporate Services department. To provide an advisory role to the Policy & Performance Committee. To provide operational and strategic management to all teams towards improving service standards. Nursery Services Remit To provide high quality, flexible childcare for families from the local communities. To oversee the operation of the full capacity of places at the day nursery to the highest standards, ensuring that the best possible environment and care are provided for young children. To be responsible for high standards of care and education of children between 0 to five years in accordance with statutory requirements. To ensure the Early Years Foundation Stage and other associated governance principles is promoted and delivered within the setting and the principles adhered to Page 5 of 14

KEY PRIORITIES FOR EKAYA Staying true to their mission and, as an independent housing association, continuing to offer good quality housing and support services, primarily to black and ethnic minority women, their families and other groups with similar need. Supporting the business with delivering corporate events including away days, briefings, trainings etc. on sector related changes i.e. Welfare Reform and critical changes to benefit schemes, making sure they are aware of the changes and how they might affect them, working with accountable leaders to promote communications as part of a communication strategy for example, regular features in the resident magazine and special information in regards to these issues. Listening to stakeholders and responding to their needs. Commission services in line with value for money for the business and improving services. Harnessing expertise and support in governing the business. Striving for the best for the business and to deliver a service that Ekaya can be proud of. Working as a small housing association brings with it many challenges and the ability to rapidly embrace change continues to be a key to future success. Joining Ekaya at this time presents the suitable candidate with a fantastic opportunity to be part of Ekaya s exciting journey. Page 6 of 14

HEAD OF CORPORATE SERVICES Grade/Salary: Reports To: Responsible For: 58,686 per annum Chief Executive Senior Corporate Services & HR Officer Quality Assurance Manager Nursery Manager JOB DESCRIPTION OBJECTIVES OF POST Responsible for managing human resources, performance improvement, communications and marketing services to the Association and its subsidiary in order to deliver the organisations objectives. To effectively manage the teams within the scope of the role in line with best practice including ensuring full compliance with safety, procurement, statutory and legislative regulations, reporting as appropriate and striving for continuous performance. To promote the efficient and effective use of resources to support delivery of the business plan and ensure income is maximised in line with budget. To oversee the organisation s subsidiary Nursery to ensure a high quality service is provided in accordance with stakeholders needs. To provide the Chief Executive, Committees, Board of Directors and management team with excellent information enabling them to fulfil their corporate role, ensuring strong operational practices of the organisation whilst maximising opportunities. To be responsible for the organisation s offices and facilities and compliance with Health and Safety requirements. To oversee the performance and management of the Nursery, ensuring full compliance, safety and high quality care, is consistently being delivered to parents/carers and regulatory standards are maintained / exceeded at all times. To work with the local authority, voluntary agencies, service users and other stakeholders to offer high quality childcare service. Page 7 of 14

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Corporate Management 1.1 Advise, monitor and maintain Corporate Services strategies to deliver the strategic plans, mitigate risk and seek intervention action as needed. 1.2 As part of SMT, provide strategic and accountable leadership in Quality Assurance Communications and all business material, Marketing and Human Resource functions whilst endorsing and promoting value for money. 1.3 Manage relationships with outsourced and communication partners, to ensure delivery of plan in line with budgets, policies and procedures and to a high standard. 1.4 Conduct In-House Training/Briefing sessions on corporate activities, coaching and development. 1.5 Lead on Corporate Induction and events for Staff and Board. 1.6 Embed, sustain and monitor people and business strategies. 2. Human Resources 2.1 Ensure agreed people strategies, policies and procedures are implemented, monitored, reviewed and kept up-to-date to support the organisation s overall strategic plan. 3. Staffing 3.1 Motivate, train and develop staff and monitor and review performance appraisal systems that contribute to the organisation achieving its strategic goals. 3.2 Provide a high quality service to both internal and external customers. 3.3 Oversee staff training and induction, ensure targets are set and appraisals are held. 4. Other 4.1 Develop and implement a marketing strategy that supports corporate objectives and the organisation s objectives. 4.2 Monitor and review service level agreements and contracts annually with a view to improving service delivery and value for money. 4.3 Promoting equality and diversity and health and safety throughout the organisation. 4.4 Maintain the highest standards of personal and professional integrity and conduct and observe the appropriate Codes of Conduct and report any breaches of such to the Chief Executive. 4.5 Any other tasks commensurate to the role and grade as requested by the Chief Executive. Page 8 of 14

HEAD OF CORPORATE SERVICES PERSON SPECIFICATION QUALIFICATIONS AND TRAINING Professional CIPD / MCIPD / FCIPD, or equivalent management degree Formal Management training A demonstrable commitment to personal and professional Development Desirable KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE A proven track record in managing at a similar level Experience of heading Corporate Services functions and performance management Ability to lead, motivate and develop staff at all levels Strong verbal and written communication skills including negotiating and presentation skills which ensure clarity and effective communication Excellent analytical, problem solving and numerical skills Knowledge and understanding of Housing regulatory requirements Knowledge and understanding of Corporate Management and Regulatory requirements i.e., Ofsted, HR and Employment Law Experience of developing and/or managing HR & Corporate Strategy, business planning and Risk Management Knowledge of one or more of Human Resources, Corporate Services and Health & Safety Strong admin and IT technical skills, including knowledge of MS Office Desirable Desirable Page 9 of 14

CUSTOMER FOCUS Committed to delivering a quality customer service, best practice and best value in all aspects of the organisations operations Application of Equality and Diversity policies and principles to improve services and enhance the reputation of the organisation LEADERSHIP Ability to lead a team providing vision and strategic direction Ability to plan, organise, prioritise and delivers results to deadlines Creates and maintains a culture of regulatory compliance and continuous management BUSINESS MANAGEMENT Ability to procure business service requirements in line with Value for Money An understanding of the legal requirements of corporate bodies, RSLs and Ofsted / Early Years regulatory obligations Developed business acumen and commercial awareness and skills Desirable PERSONAL QUALITIES Demonstrates the skills and ability to resolve conflict constructively Builds productive working relationships and partnerships Ability to work outside normal working hours as required Desirable March 2015 Page 10 of 14

CONDITIONS OF SERVICE (Subject to contract) Post: Place of Work: Responsible to: Contracted Hours: Holidays: Salary: Pension: Head of Corporate Services Ekaya Housing Association Ltd., Lincoln House, 1-3 Brixton Road, London SW9 6DE Chief Executive Officer Normal week is 37.5 hours, Monday to Friday, excluding lunch 25 days, plus public holidays, increasing to 30 days after five years continuous service. 58,686 per annum Ekaya has a non-contributory group pension scheme and makes a 7% Employer Contribution. Page 11 of 14

Head of Finance & IT Head of Operations & New Business Chief Executive Officer Head of Corporate Services PROPOSED ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE CHART 2015 Finance & IT Officer Senior Finance Officer Trainee Finance Officer (Part Time) Finance Officer (Part Time) Support Services Manager Property & Housing Services Manager Happy Nursery Days Manager Quality Assurance Manager Senior Corporate Services & HR Officer Corporate Services Admin/PA to CEO Team Leaders x 2 Customer Services Officer Housing Officers x 2 Property Surveyor Refer to S/S Structure Chart Support Officer (Accommodation Based) x 13 Refer to S/S Chart Customer Services Officer Maintenance Floating Support Officers x 2 Refer to S/S Structure Chart Handy Person

HAPPY NURSERY DAYS ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE CHART Nursery Manager Deputy Nursery Manager (P/T) Early Years Practitioners (F/T) x 10 Early Years Practitioner (P/T) x 9 Nursery Cook Page 13 of 14

PROPOSED SUPPORT SERVICES STRUCTURE CHART 2015 HEAD OF OPERATIONS & NEW BUSINESS TEAM LEADER (Wandsworth, Greenwich, Lewisham & Southwark) SUPPORT SERVICES MANAGER TEAM LEADER (Lambeth) (SUBIRA) x 2 (SUBIRA - Night) (FIOLA) FLOATING SUPPORT OFFICER x 2 x 0.5 (ALUNA) x 0.5 (AZIZA) X 2.5 (BARR ROAD) (IFEOMA) x 1.5 (JENNINGS) x 1.5 (TULSE HILL) (KABO) Page 14 of 14