How to Become a Care District Manager: Jackie’s Story

Having worked for Anchor for over 26 years in various departments within Care Services, Jackie’s talent and hard work have led her to the Care Home Manager role she’s in today.

Here she shares a little about her career journey and advice for anyone looking to follow a similar career path within care services. 

What was your first role at Anchor?

I started my care career with Anchor 26 years ago, as a laundry assistant/catering assistant at Israel Sieff Court care home in Manchester. I was what you call a “bank” laundry assistant/catering assistant which means I was part of a flexible team that provides cover for sickness and holidays. It was only supposed to be a temporary job in between finishing university and starting another job with Virgin Atlantic but the experience took me in a direction I had never imagined. 

How did you become a Care District Manager with Anchor? 

I’d never worked in care before, and I remember initially feeling quite overwhelmed and out of my depth, as I quickly realised the responsibility we have looking after vulnerable people.

However, my colleagues (some are still working for Anchor) took me under their wings and showed me the ‘ropes’. As time moved on, I grew in confidence and started learning more about how to provide care and support to the residents, which I loved and took a lot of pride in. After training and gaining some experience, I was eventually offered a part-time contract as a Care Assistant and decided not to take the Virgin Atlantic job.

From there, I slowly worked my way up, undertaking a handful of roles within the care home - and eventually I became District Manager. I have been given so many great opportunities during my career and have achieved all my Care and Leadership Qualifications during my time with Anchor, which I am really proud of and grateful for. 

All my qualifications were supported and funded by Anchor, and I am so grateful for the organisation’s support in my development. I had on the job training and support and was also given time within my contractual hours to complete my qualifications. I was allowed study time or was paid overtime for this in order to complete the qualifications. What’s more, I had access to support from the training ‘hub’ at the time, and a training team who provided mentorship sessions and support.

I would not have stayed with Anchor as long as I have if it weren’t for the brilliant colleagues that have invested in me along the way.

The organisation’s values have played a key role here, and I am very proud of what I have been able to accomplish during my career so far. 

Find out more about how we support colleagues with their learning and development. 

What are the day-to-day duties of a District Manager within care? 

As a District Manager I have oversight of eight care homes. I work closely with Home Managers and colleagues to ensure that compliance and standards of good practice are maintained consistently, and that our residents feel safe and well cared for. I also have oversight of the financial performance for the district and ensuring that our homes remain viable and continue to contribute back into the business, in line with our Business Plan, Care Strategy and Values.

A key part of my role is to ensure that information is communicated effectively to all my colleagues, and to ensure they are aware of how their roles make a difference when it comes to the ongoing success of our homes and of Anchor as an organisation. 

What we do is hugely important work – and I think it’s essential that we all understand the difference we can make in people’s lives. 

What is the most fulfilling thing about working as a Care Home Manager and your care career as a whole?

The most rewarding part of my role is being able to mentor colleagues, whether they aspire to set a personal goal or to develop in their career. Seeing them achieve what they set out to – and then celebrate their success – is one of the best things about my role. 

This also nurtures good relationships, colleague wellbeing and positive working cultures within our homes, which I am passionate about.

What would you say to someone considering joining Anchor, who wants to build a career in the care sector?

For anyone considering joining Anchor, I would say that it’s a company that has a great reputation and modern influence within the sector. Work-life balance is encouraged, and colleagues have access to competitive benefits and colleague wellbeing schemes. 

Learn more about the rewards and benefits on offer at Anchor. 

What advice would you give to someone looking to take a similar care career path to yourself?

If I could provide any advice to someone considering a similar career in care, it would be to reach out to others already in the role to ask questions. Also, never be afraid of letting your interest be known - everyone has to start somewhere! 

Jackie Van Zandt is a District Manager at Anchor

Careers in Care at Anchor

Here at Anchor, we are committed to helping people make a real difference in the lives of older people, and by choosing a career with us you’ll be guaranteed to feel good about what you do every day.

Get in touch to learn more about Care Home District Manager careers and other care jobs at Anchor, our learning and development opportunities, and the rewards and benefits we offer.