Management and leadership
We passionately believe care is more than just a job – it’s a career that changes lives, including your own. That’s why we’ve created clear, flexible career pathways across our operational and support teams.
Whatever your ambition, we’ll help you get there
Whether you want to take on more responsibility, explore something new, or grow into leadership, we’re here to help you get there.
From day one, you’ll see what your future could look like - with career maps to guide you, and opportunities across both our frontline and support teams.
When it comes to career progression, we walk the walk
We love to celebrate the progress our people make, and you’ll hear real stories from people across Lifeways who’ve progressed, pivoted, or found their purpose with us.
Here's a snapshot:
345 internal promotions
since June 2024
New flexible working options
including sessional roles
Relocation plans
to support new opportunities
30%
of our senior leaders began as Support Workers
Great teams grow from great leaders
At Lifeways, we believe leadership is a skill that can be nurtured and we’re proud to grow many of our leaders from within.
Whether you’re stepping up for the first time or already leading others, our leadership development programmes are designed to meet you where you are and help you keep growing.
Here’s what’s on offer:
Leadership Programmes
Operational and Support Functions Leadership Programmes – ensuring all our managers share a consistent foundation of leadership at Lifeways
Growing Our Own
For aspiring leaders at every stage of their journey
Leadership Apprenticeships
From Level 3 to Level 5
Coaching for Improvement
Focused coaching to help leaders embed change and drive progress
1:1 Coaching
Personalised development support tailored to individual growth goals
Leadership Workshops
Practical sessions covering essential tools and techniques
Peer Support Networks
Safe spaces where managers can share experiences, learn from each other, and build supportive peer networks
Leadership that lifts everyone
Great care starts with great leadership. That’s why we created the Operational Leaders’ Programme - a hands-on development journey for all our managers, whether you’re leading in a service or a support function.
This isn’t off-the-shelf training. It’s been shaped by our managers’ feedback and focuses on real-life challenges, not theory. Over a mix of in-person workshops and virtual learning sets, you’ll explore what leadership means to you and how to get the best out of your team. As part of the programme you’ll receive a personalised leadership profile, which helps you understand your leadership style and how to build stronger working relationships.
You’ll come away with greater self-awareness, more confidence, and practical tools you can use straight away - all while staying true to our CHOICE values.
Whether you’re already managing a team or stepping into your first leadership role, we’ll support you to lead with impact and purpose.
Current opportunities
It doesn’t matter to us if you’ve worked in the sector or not. What’s important is you want to make a difference, because you’re not just anyone. Check out roles – from superstar support workers and top team leaders to tech wizards and financial experts.
Browse our jobs
Career progression
With us, your growth starts on day one. Whether you're new to the sector or switching careers, we offer tailored training, flexible learning, and ongoing support to help you thrive. Join us and build a meaningful career that could last a lifetime.
How you can shape your future
Explore career stories
Real people. Real impact. Get inspired by stories from across Lifeways, from first-day nerves to proudest moments and everything in between. See where a Lifeways career can take you.
Be inspired