Prison Deputy Director - HMP Bronzefield

Job Introduction

Do you have senior leadership experience in the criminal justice sector? Are you a strategic thinker, an inspiring leader, and someone who can motivate teams in challenging environments?

We’re recruiting for a Deputy Director at HMP & YOI Bronzefield, the largest women’s prison in Europe. This is a unique opportunity to join a dynamic, forward-thinking leadership team.

Working closely with the Director, you’ll oversee the day-to-day operations of the prison and help shape its strategic direction. You’ll need exceptional communication skills, resilience, and a trauma-informed approach to leadership. The role involves managing all operational aspects—from high-security cases and women on remand to those with mental health needs, pregnant women, and mothers with babies.

If you’re passionate about making a difference and leading with empathy and integrity, we’d love to hear from you.

Main Responsibilities

• Direct the management of the prison in the absence of the Director.
• Take command of complex operational incidents and participate in incident management as required
• With guidance from the Director and in accordance with the Company Policy and the requirements of the Authority, contribute to the development of policies and procedures for the proper operation of the prison
• Continually review the skills and competencies of the team, addressing issues proactively.
• To anticipate risks (operational, financial, contractual and reputational), devising and implementing appropriate proactive strategies
• Supervise, direct and create the Security, Safety and Safeguarding strategies within the prison with particular emphasis on Safer Custody, Restricted Status policy and Public Protection.
• Participate in the development and maintenance of an operational budget by involvement in the budgetary process
• Maintain communications and relationships with a range of external organisations focused on resettlement and rehabilitation
• Instigates and provides Terms of Reference for staff investigations and conducts disciplinary and grievance hearings and appeals in accordance with Company policies and procedures

The Ideal Candidate 

• Senior operational leadership experience in a prisons with ability to communicate and promote engagement with vision
• A role model leader - authentic leadership skills with a clear and demonstrable understanding of key people management tools and resources
• Financial management experience, including responsibility for budgets, and proven ability to achieve efficiencies.
• Strategic thinking, understanding policy and legal context, to make meaningful decisions in complex and challenging situations.
• Proven ability to develop mature, productive and meaningful relationships with internal and external service providers, key stakeholders and partners.
• Ability to exercise sound judgement in politicised and pressured environment.
• Technical knowledge of relevant prison legislation, Prison Service Orders and instructions, Standards, inspection and audit processes, and knowledge of the wider criminal justice system.

Package Description

Competitive salary 

Working with Sodexo is more than a job; it’s a chance to be part of something greater.

You’ll belong in a company and team that values you for you; you’ll act with purpose and have an impact through your everyday actions; and you’ll be able to thrive in your own way. 

In addition, we offer 20+ Sodexo benefits such as Sodexo retirement plan, discounts to over 1,900 brands to shop online, Gym discount to maintain a healthy lifestyle, a confidential 24/7 employee assistance programme providing independent support to overcome whenever life has its obstacles including emotional support, legal and financial advice. 

For further details regarding our Sodexo benefits please see attached.  

Ready to be part of something greater? Apply today! 

About The Company

At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better everyday for everyone to build a better life for all. As the global leader in services that improve the Quality of Life, we operate in 55 countries, serving over 100 million consumers each day through our unique combination of On-Site Food and FM Services, Benefits & Rewards Services and Personal & Home Services.

We're all about building a workplace for the future, we believe in equal opportunities, and we celebrate diversity. We’re an inclusive workplace, where everyone is welcome, everyone can be natural, and be the best versions of themselves. We recognise that we’re on a journey with regards to diversity and inclusion and would therefore welcome applications for candidates from underrepresented backgrounds.

We’re a Disability Confident Leader employer. We’re committed to changing attitudes towards disability, and making sure disabled people have the chance to fulfil their aspirations. We run a Disability Confident interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria for the job.