Ross Stephen
Gold Coast,QLD
Summary
Dynamic Senior Team Leader with a proven track record at the Department of Families, Seniors, Disability Services and Child Safety. Expert in strategic planning and team development, I successfully enhanced productivity and reduced workloads. My strong communication skills and risk assessment expertise fostered collaborative relationships, ensuring the safety and well-being of vulnerable families.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Senior Team Leader
Department of Families, Seniors, Disability Services and Child Safety
South East, QLD
11.2021 - Current
- Supported and ran a regional assistance team of six Child Safety Officers, who conducted investigations and assessments for children and families across the South East Region.
- The purpose of the team is to assist the region in reducing the number of open assessments, and to support the service center in increasing their capacity and reducing workloads.
- Implemented strategic plans to enhance team performance and productivity.
- Maintained open lines of communication with senior management, reporting team progress and challenges.
- Coached, mentored and trained junior team members on their roles and responsibilities.
- Oversaw training and development programs to enhance team skills and knowledge.
- Conducted home visits to assess client needs, evaluate progress, and provide resources to families.
- Cultivated relationships with local organizations dedicated to helping underserved communities.
- Maintained detailed records of client information and services provided in accordance with agency policy.
- Identified potential safety risks within the home environment during assessment visits.
- Evaluated referrals from external sources regarding possible child abuse cases.
- Used job-related software to compose or prepare correspondence, case notes and technical reports.
- Reviewed and approved workflow from the team to ensure timeframes are met and risk assessments were completed.
Foster Care Case Manager
Churches of Christ in Queensland
Ashmore, QLD
04.2021 - 10.2021
- Conducted assessments of families to determine eligibility for foster care services.
- Assisted in recruiting, training, and supervising foster parents as well as providing them with ongoing support and guidance.
- Investigated allegations of abuse or neglect within the foster care system.
- Created written reports summarizing case progress which were submitted for review by supervisors.
Child Safety Officer
Department of Families, Seniors, Disability Services and Child Safety
South East, QLD
04.2016 - 04.2021
- Conducted and wrote detailed assessments and court affidavits.
- Interviewed children and parents under the Child Protection Act to assess children's safety and protection.
- Conducted community-based referrals to family supports, mental health, and drug and alcohol support services.
- Worked closely with community agencies such as Act for Kids, QLD Health, QLD Police and CYMHS.
- Worked closely with foster care providers to ensure proper placement for neglected or abused youths.
- Developed plans for reuniting separated family members affected by child safety concerns.
- Provided guidance and counselling services for families dealing with serious child safety issues such as substance abuse or domestic violence.
- Organized and facilitated meetings between parents, foster care providers, social workers, teachers, and other professionals to discuss the safety and well-being of children.
Education
Masters of Social Work (professional Qualifying) - Social Work
Southern Cross University
QLD03-2021
Bachelor of Arts - Contemporary Society And Culture
Griffith University
QLD01-2010
Skills
- Team leadership
- Strategic planning
- Risk assessment
- Communication skills
- Training development
- Verbal and written communication
- Conflict mediation
- Resource allocation
- Delegation
- Team development
- Daily workflow improvement
Accomplishments
- My team received an 'Exceptional Service' award at the annual Staff Excellence Awards in 2022 due to the significant support we implemented across the region
Certification
- ICARE certification in 2016 (Interviewing Children and Recording Evidence) from the Queensland Police Service
- Safe and Together certification in 2024 - I can expertly assess and support victim survivors of domestic and family violence, and hold accountable perpetrators of abuse
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Senior Team Leader
Department of Families, Seniors, Disability Services and Child Safety
11.2021 - Current
Foster Care Case Manager
Churches of Christ in Queensland
04.2021 - 10.2021
Child Safety Officer
Department of Families, Seniors, Disability Services and Child Safety
04.2016 - 04.2021
Masters of Social Work (professional Qualifying) - Social Work
Southern Cross University
Bachelor of Arts - Contemporary Society And Culture
Griffith University