Bereavement Services Technical Manager - Req25012

The Bereavement Services team in Leeds has recently undergone a reshaping exercise that has provided a number of opportunities to join the team. We are currently delivering around 5500 burials and cremations annually and this is an exciting time for the service as we look to modernise building on the good level of service currently achieved. Alongside recruiting to key positions, we are also seeking to introduce upgraded ICT systems and business processes and significantly investing in new equipment for our crematoria and grave digging teams. 

We are now looking to fill a newly created position of Bereavement Technical Manager to help shape this important work and lead improvement in our front of house team. This is an important role managing the day-to-day operation of the bereavement technical team ensuring that service bookings are managed in line with capacity, that memorial testing and compliance processes are followed and that income due to the council is collected in a timely manner. 

It is important that you have the ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of people with due sensitivity and compassion.  Reporting to the Head of Bereavement Services and Workshop you will work alongside the Bereavement Operations Manager to ensure we continue to meet the needs of the community of Leeds.

For an informal discussion ahead of application the Head of Bereavement Services and Workshop would be happy to speak to you and can be contacted via email to arrange a suitable time on simon.frosdick@leeds.gov.uk.

We promote diversity and want a workforce that reflects the population of Leeds and the communities we serve. Leeds City Council is an Inclusive employer, ranked 70 on the Stonewall top 100 employers 2023 list. We are also an Age friendly employer, a Mindful employer and a Disability Confident leader.

All new Leeds City Council appointments are made subject to the satisfactory completion of a six month probationary period. 

This role is based in the UK. Employment is conditional on confirmation of the right to work in the UK  - either as a UK or Irish citizen, under the EU Settlement scheme or having secured any other relevant work visa. If you do not have the right to work in the UK and the role does not meet eligibility for sponsorship, please consider carefully whether you meet the eligibility to apply.

Job Description 

Job Purpose: To manage the day-to-day operation of the bereavement technical team ensuring that service bookings are managed in line with capacity, that the memorial testing and compliance processes are followed and that income due is collected in a timely manner.

Responsibilities: 

• To oversee the bereavement technical function ensuring that service bookings are processed efficiently in line with available capacity and in compliance with legislative requirements.
• To lead on ICT and telephony issues for Bereavement Services providing support to users and undertaking a super-user role for development activity.
• To engage proactively with stakeholders including funeral directors, medical referees, and registrars to meet the aims of an efficient bereavement service.
• To lead on the development and sale of memorialisation opportunities to the public including management of time expired memorials and the control of 3rd party contractor permits in relation to the erection of memorials.
• To ensure that a programme of memorial testing and inspection is in place and working effectively.
• To ensure that the council’s policies on grave compliance are followed taking action where required to address non-compliance with standards.
• To monitor relevant budgets ensuring that income due to the service is collected in a timely manner and recharges to CEGS are accurate.
• Undertake a key supporting role to the Head of Bereavement Services when appropriate.
• To undertake procurement activity for related equipment and supplies.
• To manage and motivate staff within the bereavement technical team including ensuring that appropriate staff development is in place.
• To ensure effective consultation mechanisms are operated to develop the work of the service.
• To compile and provide performance information that is accurate and timely when requested.
• To be flexible and adaptable to change to assist other services as required commensurate to grade.  
• Participate in appraisal, training, and development activities as necessary to ensure up to date knowledge and skills.
• Improve own practice through observation, evaluation, discussion with colleagues and appropriate CPD programmes.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues, knowing when to seek help and advice.
• Contribute to the overall ethos, work, and aims of the service by attending relevant meetings, training days/events as requested.
• Be aware of and comply with Leeds City Council policies and procedures e.g., child protection, health, safety and security, confidentiality, and data protection, reporting all concerns to an appropriate person
• Be aware of and support difference and ensure equality for all working in an anti-discriminatory manner, upholding, and promoting the values, standards, and Equality & Diversity policies of Leeds City Council. 
• Recognise and appropriately challenge any incidents of racism, bullying, harassment, victimisation, and any form of abuse of equal opportunities, ensuring compliance with relevant policies and procedures.
• The duties outlined are not meant as an exhaustive list and will also comprise any other duties within the spirit of the post commensurate with the job evaluation outcome for this post.
• The Council has adopted a flexibility protocol and this role will be expected to work within these parameters.

Qualifications:

• Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management (ICCM) Certificate (or higher) 

or 

• a degree level qualification

or 

• extensive experience in a similar role for example registrar, legal or licencing.

PERSONAL SPECIFICATION 

Method of Assessment will be through one or more of the following Application Form, Test, Interview, and Certificate

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS: It is essential that the Candidate should be able to demonstrate the following criteria for the post within the context of the specific role duties and responsibilities: Candidates will only be shortlisted for interview if they can demonstrate on the application form that they meet all the essential requirements.

Skills Required

• Ability to analyse data and produce effective reports and presentations
• Ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of people and with due sensitivity and compassion.
• Ability to effectively lead, manage and motivate individuals and teams
• Ability to prioritise and organise work schedules for the team within constrained time frames 
• Ability to work with a high degree of accuracy and with a methodical approach
• Ability to work as part of a team and on own initiative
• Ability to adapt to new technological solutions quickly
• Able to work flexibly across different work locations and areas as appropriate.  

Knowledge Required

• Knowledge of current legislative controls, national codes of conduct and industry standard practice and processes required to control burial and cremation activities compliant with UK regulations, 

or

• Knowledge of how to organise and develop processes in a specialist, regulated field of work.
• Knowledge of quality assurance systems and procedures

Experience Required

• Liaising with external and internal clients and partners to deliver high service standards
  Financial processing and collecting income 
• Preparation and presentation of information at diverse levels for example to senior managers and elected members
• Working with diverse ICT solutions
• Implementation and operation of clerical and digital management systems
• Of evaluating and establishing technological or procedural solutions to problems, then delivering and embedding change
• Procurement of goods and services 
• In managing projects or work programmes

Behavioural & other Characteristics required

• Committed to continuous improvement.
• Able to understand and observe Leeds City Council Equality & Diversity Policies.
• Carry out all duties having regard to an employee’s responsibility under Health & Safety Policies.
• Willingness to actively participate in training and development activities to ensure up to date knowledge, skills, and continuous professional development
• Understand and embrace our values, behaviours and codes of conduct. 

DESIRABLE REQUIREMENTS: It is desirable that the Candidate should be able to demonstrate the following criteria for the post within the context of the specific role duties and responsibilities:  Candidates are not required to meet all the desirable requirements however these may be used to distinguish between acceptable candidates.

Skills Required

• Ability to undertake process reviews, to develop a ‘statement of need’ and identify applicable software solutions 

Knowledge Required

• ICCM diploma in Bereavement Services

Experience Required

• Experience of introducing new practice to an established team
• Experienced in working in a regulated area for example licencing, medical, law, or emergency services

Apply for this job