At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative SEND reform projects to improve outcomes for children and young people.
- Company: Brent Council, committed to diversity and community welfare.
- Benefits: Generous leave, excellent pension, hybrid working, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to inclusion and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children with SEND while leading impactful initiatives.
- Qualifications: Experience in programme management and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 58461 - 61653 £ per year.
Salary range: £58,461 - £61,653 London weighting pro rata
Contract: 36‑month fixed‑term – end date 31 March 2029
Hours of work: 36 hours
Location: Brent Civic Centre and other locations as required
Role Summary
We are seeking an experienced and strategic Programme Lead to drive Brent’s ambitious SEND reform agenda, with a particular focus on delivering the innovative Experts at Hand (EAH) model. This senior leadership role oversees a complex portfolio of programmes and projects that improve outcomes for children and young people with SEND, working across education, health and care, leading partnership working, shaping strategy and ensuring high‑quality delivery against key priorities.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and coordinate the programme management of SEND reform, ensuring delivery of strategic objectives and measurable improvements
- Oversee the development and delivery of the Experts at Hand programme, driving innovation and impact within the High Needs Block framework
- Develop and manage programme plans across multiple workstreams and stakeholders
- Monitor performance, risks and outcomes, using data and insight to drive continuous improvement
- Lead the implementation of key strategies, including the Inclusion Strategy and High Needs Block Management Plan
- Work collaboratively with local authority services, health partners, schools and the voluntary sector
- Oversee programme governance, reporting and quality assurance
- Lead and develop teams to ensure high performance and accountability
- Support commissioning, market development and sufficiency planning for SEND provision
Qualifications and Experience
- Strong track record of delivering complex programmes or transformation initiatives within a large organisation
- Significant experience of project and programme management, including planning, governance and delivery across multiple workstreams
- Experience of commissioning services, managing contracts and overseeing budgets within a complex environment
- Strong leadership and people‑management skills, with the ability to build high‑performing teams
- Experience of working across multi‑agency partnerships, including education, health and care
- Excellent communication skills, able to influence, engage and build effective relationships with a wide range of stakeholders
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and drive informed decision‑making
- Experience of leading change and service improvement, delivering measurable impact
- Commitment to safeguarding, inclusion and continuous improvement
Benefits
- Up to 33 days annual leave (depending on length of service) plus bank holidays
- Excellent pension with generous employer contributions (LGPS)
- Hybrid and flexible working options available for most roles
- Supportive family‑friendly policies for parents, guardians and carers
- Health and wellbeing support, including access to eye test support and a 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
- Financial support such as education sessions, childcare deposit loans and season ticket loans
- Travel perks including affordable parking nearby, a Cycle to Work scheme and great onsite facilities
- Learning and development opportunities to help you grow your career
- Access to My Brent Rewards with exclusive discounts on shopping, travel, leisure and entertainment
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Brent Council values the diversity of its community and encourages applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to safer recruitment and safeguarding and promote the welfare of children and young people. Applicants should be aware that posts working with children, young people and vulnerable adults are subject to an Enhanced DBS check and other employment clearances. We will interview disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria and will provide reasonable adjustments as required.
Data Protection
The information we collect from you will be shared with Cifas, who will use it to prevent fraud, other unlawful or dishonest conduct, malpractice and other seriously improper conduct. Further details of how your information will be used and your data protection rights can be found here.
Experts at Hand (EAH) Programme Lead in Wembley employer: Brent Council
Brent Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment that prioritises the well-being of its employees. With generous benefits such as up to 33 days of annual leave, excellent pension contributions, and flexible working options, staff are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. The Council is committed to fostering employee growth through continuous learning opportunities and a strong focus on collaboration across various sectors, making it an ideal place for those passionate about making a meaningful impact in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Experts at Hand (EAH) Programme Lead in Wembley
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Brent Council, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Brent Council and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Experts at Hand (EAH) Programme Lead in Wembley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Brent Council and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Brent Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Brent Council, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Brent Council.
