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- Tasks: Lead Hampshire's Children's Services through transformative change and ensure quality service delivery.
- Company: Hampshire County Council, a top-performing authority with a commitment to excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of £185k, hybrid working arrangements, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Shape the future of children's services in a dynamic and supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Visionary leadership experience and ability to manage substantial budgets effectively.
- Other info: Join a well-led organisation dedicated to delivering vital services for Hampshire's diverse population.
The predicted salary is between 148000 - 222000 £ per year.
Hampshire is a fantastic county, home to an increasingly diverse population with justifiably high expectations of their political leaders and public servants. The County Council is, and has been, consistently one of the top performing authorities in the Country in all key areas of service delivery across all externally validated measures. Not least, Hampshire's Children's Services have been judged as "Outstanding" on two consecutive occasions since 2019. It is a well-led organisation with an eye to the future and an enduring commitment to delivering vital services to the residents of Hampshire.
The County Council is hugely ambitious for the future but also retains a dedicated focus on the importance of upholding quality service delivery for today. Devolution and Local Government Reorganisation present a unique opportunity to secure the best possible outcomes for all of Hampshire's residents. For Children's Services, this means ensuring excellent services during a period of significant change and transformation.
The scale of the system is significant, with 550 schools and budgetary accountability of £500m. The challenges facing the sector nationally are ever present in Hampshire, with SEND and home to school transport pressures well recognised and addressed. Across the directorate, services are well-led and managed, well-regarded by children, young people and their families, and relationships with partners are constructive.
This means a professionally qualified and forward thinking Director of Children's Services is essential to lead the Directorate and its workforce as it navigates these major changes. As DCS, you will ensure the quality and sustainability of core services, provide leadership across the system and hold and develop key relationships with our partners and stakeholders in the face of change and degrees of uncertainty.
As a CMT member, you will make a full contribution to the leadership of the County Council and be skilled at working beyond directorate and organisational boundaries. Critical to this is that excellent services endure and form a key component of a public service system that is fit for future purpose.
You will bring the exceptional ability to lead high-performing organisations through periods of transformative change, leveraging the strengths of a talented team while effectively managing a substantial budget amidst evolving challenges and financial pressures within the sector and system. Irrespective of where you are now, you will be a visionary leader with the foresight, experience and leadership attributes to guide Hampshire's Children's Services through ambitious and transformative times. This is a pivotal role at a critical moment to shape the future of Hampshire.
Closing date for applications: 5:00pm 13th February 2026.
Director of Children’s Services, Hampshire County Council, Winchester (with hybrid arrangements), £185k employer: Berwick Partners
Contact Detail:
Berwick Partners Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Children’s Services, Hampshire County Council, Winchester (with hybrid arrangements), £185k
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to Hampshire County Council. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the latest trends in children's services and the specific challenges Hampshire is facing. Show that you’re not just a candidate but a thought leader ready to tackle these issues head-on. Bring your A-game and be ready to discuss how you can make a difference!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview or networking event, drop a quick thank-you email. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it’s a great way to reiterate your key points!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search. So, hit that 'Apply Now' button and let’s get you on the path to leading Hampshire's Children's Services!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Children’s Services, Hampshire County Council, Winchester (with hybrid arrangements), £185k
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for children's services shine through. We want to see your commitment to making a difference in Hampshire and how your vision aligns with our goals.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in leading high-performing organisations. We’re looking for someone who can navigate change, so share specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage challenges effectively.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your key messages about leadership and service delivery come across clearly.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application via our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this pivotal role in shaping Hampshire's future.
How to prepare for a job interview at Berwick Partners
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in Hampshire's Children’s Services and the challenges they face. Familiarise yourself with recent reports, statistics, and any changes in legislation that could impact the role. This shows your commitment and understanding of the sector.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams through change. Highlight your experience in managing budgets and navigating complex organisational structures. Be ready to discuss how you can leverage your team’s strengths to maintain high service standards.
✨Build Relationships
Demonstrate your ability to forge strong partnerships with stakeholders. Think of specific instances where you’ve collaborated effectively with other organisations or departments. This is crucial for a role that requires working beyond directorate boundaries.
✨Vision for the Future
Articulate your vision for Hampshire's Children’s Services amidst ongoing transformation. Discuss innovative ideas you have for improving service delivery and how you plan to address current pressures like SEND and transport issues. Show that you’re forward-thinking and ready to tackle challenges head-on.