Career Development Pathways at Signature

At Signature, we’re committed to helping our people thrive. That’s why we’ve introduced Career Development Pathways – a clear framework designed to support growth and progression across all roles.

Our employee survey feedback highlighted that many of you wanted to see more visible career opportunities. In response, these pathways now provide step-by-step guidance on how you can build your skills, expand your knowledge, and progress in your career with us.

They’re also a valuable tool for our line managers, giving them a structured way to coach, support, and plan progression with their teams. This approach is about more than career moves, it’s about investing in you and your future at Signature.

To strengthen this further, apprenticeship opportunities are now built into every progression level. This means you’ll not only gain on-the-job experience but also work towards recognised, accredited qualifications that enhance your professional development.

By linking formal learning with career growth, we’re equipping you with the tools, confidence, and support you need to succeed at every stage of your journey with us.

Real Stories: Growing a Career in Care

From Care Assistant to General Manager – A Journey of Growth – Stefan Cocioaba – General Manager at Signature at Ascot

“My journey in care began in 2012, when I started working as a Care Assistant and completed my NVQ Level 2 Introduction to Care. In November 2013, I relocated to Surrey and joined Barchester as a Hospitality Assistant, where I also completed a Level 2 qualification in Customer Service. However, my passion for care remained strong, and I transitioned back into a care role within the same company, seeking more meaning and long-term growth.

In 2014, I joined Sunrise in Guildford as a Care Assistant. Within six months, I was supported to begin administering medications and enrolled in NVQ Level 3. I was fortunate to be mentored by the RCM (Residential Care Manager), who encouraged me to train for a Care Supervisor (CS) position. After successfully completing my qualification, I stepped into the CS role full-time.

Wanting to further develop my leadership skills, I enrolled in both a Level 2 Diploma in Leadership and Management and a Level 2 Diploma in Team Leading. During this time, I received one-on-one guidance from the Residential Care Manager, shadowing and even leading the Assisted Living Department one day a week. Over the year, I also completed a number of relevant management trainings, preparing me for the next step in my career.

As I gained confidence, I started acting up as RCM during holidays and days off. In 2016, I committed to the next step by signing up for the Level 5 Diploma, with full support from my line manager who entrusted me with more responsibility—leading meetings, managing departmental tasks, and preparing for a future management role.

Upon completing my qualification, I was ready to lead. Though no Residential Care Manager roles were available at Sunrise at the time, I joined Avery Healthcare for 11 months to continue building experience. In time, a vacancy opened at Sunrise of Weybridge (now Signature at Weybridge), and I was fortunate to return as Residential Care Manager. I spent 3.5 years in that role, followed by another 3.5 years as a Clinical Services Manager, and I am currently proud to serve as General Manager at Ascot.”

Advice for New Managers:
“To anyone aspiring to become a manager in care: You need to truly see yourself in this field for the long term. Be prepared not only for the deeply rewarding moments but also for the tough conversations and the business side of care. One of my challenges was not being exposed to finances until I stepped into my role in Weybridge—so the earlier you learn that side, the better.”

Advice for Existing Managers:
“Stay open-minded and carve out time for your staff. I know how demanding our roles can be, but our teams often rely on us for their development. Right now in Ascot, I’m actively encouraging our Care Supervisors to step up. I have one staff member who is enrolling in Level 5, and I’m fully committed to supporting her. Our Dementia Care Manager will be her main contact, and I’ll be there to guide them both. This is my way of paying forward the support I was lucky to receive.”