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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team to drive service transformation and improvement in Family Services.
- Company: Barnet Council, dedicated to enhancing community services and supporting diverse needs.
- Benefits: 31 days annual leave, flexible working options, and extensive training opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference for children and families while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in project management and leading multidisciplinary teams in high-pressure settings.
- Other info: Join a supportive environment that values diversity and promotes work-life balance.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
About Barnet Council
Barnet is a borough with much to be proud of. Our excellent schools, vibrant town centres, vast green spaces and diverse communities all help make it a great place to live and work. As a council we want to build on these strengths as we move into the future. We are growing and developing as an organisation to meet the challenges facing our borough and we are committed to working with partner organisations and residents to make Barnet even better. As an organisation, our staff are committed to Our Values: Learning to Improve, Caring, Inclusive, Collaborative – which drive everything we do.
About the role
This is a high‑profile, fast‑paced, and demanding role, requiring exceptional resilience, adaptability, and the ability to thrive under pressure. The postholder will lead a multidisciplinary team and manage multiple priorities to deliver service transformation and improvement across Family Services and Barnet Education Learning Services (BELS). Responsible for coordinating and prioritising improvement activity by developing and delivering a strategic programme of work and providing strategic leadership for the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of strategies and policies across Children & Family Services and Barnet Education Learning Services, ensuring alignment with statutory requirements and the council’s vision for high‑quality, inclusive services. In addition, the postholder will be responsible for oversight of service improvement and capital projects, ensuring that all initiatives are effectively managed and delivered to support the council’s objectives.
About you
You are a resilient and adaptable leader, experienced in managing multidisciplinary teams and driving service transformation in high‑pressure environments. With a proven track record in project management and strategic improvement, you thrive on delivering high‑quality outcomes and building collaboration across diverse stakeholders. Your approach is inclusive, values‑driven, and focused on continuous learning and innovation. You are committed to making a positive impact for children, families, and the wider community.
What we offer
- 31 days annual leave, plus public and bank holidays
- Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme, which provides a valuable guaranteed income in your retirement together with security for your dependents
- Work‑life balance options may include hybrid working, flexitime, job share, home working, part‑time
- A vast range of lifestyle discounts from major retailers, supermarkets, energy suppliers and more
- Broad range of payroll benefits including cycle to work, eye care vouchers, travel and gym membership
- Excellent training and development opportunities
- Employee well‑being training programmes including confidential employee assistance
How to apply
Read the job description and person specification before clicking Apply to commence the online application form. If you would like any further information about the role before applying, please contact Jalpa Patel – Head of Strategy and Improvement (Family Services) Jalpa.patel@barnet.gov.uk
Additional Statements
Barnet Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Barnet operates stringent safer recruitment procedures, which may include AI Detection Screening, Biometric ID/Right to Work Checks, Qualification and Registration Checks, Up to 6 years of Employment Data and Insights to Accelerate Screening (Konfir), Up to 5 years of Employment History References, DBS (Disclosure & Barring Service) Checks, Credit Checks and Social Media, Sanctions and Occupational Health Screening. To deliver Barnet Council’s commitment to equality of opportunity in the provision of services, all staff are expected to promote equality in the workplace and in the services the Council delivers. As such we value diversity and welcome applications from all backgrounds. Barnet Council embraces all forms of flexible working (including part‑time, compressed hours, and hybrid working) and is committed to offering employees a healthy work‑life balance. Candidates are encouraged to talk about relevant requirements and preferences at interview. We can’t promise to give you exactly what you want, but we do promise not to judge you for asking. Barnet Council is a Disability Confident Committed Employer. We welcome and encourage job applications of all abilities. If you require any reasonable adjustments in the application or interview, please contact the lead contact on this advert. We will make reasonable adjustments to make sure our disabled applicants and those with health conditions are supported throughout our recruitment process. We support the access to work scheme, further details are available at www.gov.uk/access-to-work/apply. All posts with the council are subject to a probationary period of six months, during which time you will be required to demonstrate to the council satisfaction your suitability for the position in which you will be employed. Due to the high number of applications that are received for some posts we may close vacancies before the stated closing date if sufficient number of applications are received. Therefore, please apply as soon as possible. Please ensure you regularly check the email account (including JUNK MAIL folders) that you use to submit your application, as any further communication regarding your application will be sent electronically. Should you not hear from us within four working weeks of the closing date for this post, then regretfully in this instance, you have not been shortlisted.
Improvement Lead employer: Borough of Barnet
Contact Detail:
Borough of Barnet Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Improvement Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to Barnet Council. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Barnet Council's values and recent projects. Show us how your experience aligns with their mission to improve services for families and children.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, but keep it natural. We want to see your personality shine through while you demonstrate your leadership skills and adaptability.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and show your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you on their radar!
We think you need these skills to ace Improvement Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly: Before you start your application, take a good look at the job description and person specification. This will help you understand what Barnet Council is looking for and how you can tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As an Improvement Lead, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to manage multidisciplinary teams and drive service transformation. Make sure to include specific examples of your leadership experience and how you've successfully navigated high-pressure situations.
Be Inclusive and Values-Driven: Barnet Council values inclusivity and collaboration, so reflect this in your application. Share how you've worked with diverse stakeholders and how your approach aligns with their values of Learning to Improve, Caring, Inclusive, and Collaborative.
Apply Through Our Website: When you're ready to submit your application, make sure to do it through our website. This ensures that your application is received directly and allows us to process it efficiently. Don't forget to check your email for any updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at Borough of Barnet
✨Know the Council's Values
Before your interview, make sure you understand Barnet Council's core values: Learning to Improve, Caring, Inclusive, and Collaborative. Think of examples from your past experiences that demonstrate how you've embodied these values in your work.
✨Showcase Your Resilience
Given the high-pressure nature of the role, be prepared to discuss specific situations where you've successfully managed stress and adapted to change. Highlight your strategies for maintaining focus and delivering results under pressure.
✨Prepare for Team Dynamics
As a leader of a multidisciplinary team, it's crucial to show your ability to collaborate effectively. Be ready to share examples of how you've fostered teamwork and inclusivity in previous roles, especially when working with diverse stakeholders.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
The role requires strategic leadership in service transformation. Prepare to discuss your experience in project management and how you've developed and implemented successful strategies. Use concrete examples to illustrate your impact on service improvement.
