At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the transformation of adult social care quality assurance from outsourced to in-house.
- Company: Local Authority focused on improving adult social care services.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, hybrid working, and impactful leadership role.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with opportunities for significant impact and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in adult social care and drive meaningful change.
- Qualifications: Experience in adult social care quality assurance and strong leadership skills.
Location: Walsall / Hybrid
Contract: Interim – Approx. 6 Months
Start: Immediate
Rate: £550–£650 per day (Inside IR35)
Sector: Local Government / Adult Social Care
The Opportunity
We are supporting a Local Authority seeking an experienced Interim Head of Quality & Assurance (Adults Commissioning) to lead a critical transformation programme within Adult Social Care. This role will drive the redesign, stabilisation and delivery of the Council’s adult social care quality assurance function during a key transition from an outsourced model back to an internally delivered service. The successful candidate will establish a robust, visible and proactive approach to provider quality oversight, governance, market risk management and service improvement across the adult social care provider landscape. This is a high-profile leadership assignment requiring an individual capable of operating at pace across both strategic transformation and operational delivery.
Key Responsibilities
- Leading the transition of the adult social care quality assurance function from an outsourced model back into an in-house service
- Reviewing, strengthening and embedding effective quality governance and assurance arrangements
- Designing and implementing a refreshed quality assurance framework, including provider monitoring, self-assessment processes and supporting systems/technology
- Establishing a stronger operational presence within the provider market through effective quality visits, oversight and early intervention
- Developing clear visibility of provider risk across the care market, including escalation into safeguarding and governance processes where required
- Leading workforce transition, recruitment and capability development within the new quality function
- Driving a culture of accountability, pace and continuous improvement across the team
- Working closely with senior stakeholders to influence direction, manage risk and support organisational priorities
Context
Adult Social Care quality assurance is a key priority area for the Council. The local provider market includes a significant number of smaller providers, many operating without mature internal quality infrastructures, increasing the need for strong oversight and assurance arrangements. Recent challenges within the market, including provider quality concerns and limited visibility under previous outsourced arrangements, mean the incoming postholder will need to rapidly assess risk, establish control and drive sustainable improvement.
Person Specification
We are seeking an experienced senior leader with:
- Significant experience within Adult Social Care Quality Assurance, Commissioning or Provider Oversight
- Strong knowledge of adult social care governance, safeguarding, quality monitoring and provider assurance
- Demonstrable experience designing and implementing quality frameworks, operating models or assurance functions
- Proven background delivering service transformation, redesign, mobilisation or workforce transition
- Experience working within Local Authority / Adult Social Care environments
- The credibility and leadership capability to influence senior stakeholders, lead cultural change and manage complex operational challenges
- The ability to balance strategic leadership with hands-on delivery in a fast-moving environment
Desirable Experience
- Interim leadership experience within Local Government
- Experience managing outsourced to in-house service transitions
- Understanding of provider market management, commissioning and quality improvement within Adult Social Care
Interim Head of Quality & Assurance – AR in Walsall employer: Carrington Blake Recruitment
As an employer, the Local Authority in Walsall offers a unique opportunity to lead transformative change within Adult Social Care, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. With a focus on professional development and a supportive work environment, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact while enjoying the flexibility of a hybrid working model. This role not only provides competitive remuneration but also positions you at the forefront of enhancing quality assurance in a vital public service sector.
Contact Details:
Carrington Blake Recruitment Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Head of Quality & Assurance – AR in Walsall
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the local government and adult social care sectors. Attend relevant events or webinars to meet potential employers and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Prepare a portfolio or case studies that highlight your experience in quality assurance and service transformation. This will help you stand out during interviews and discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings. Reach out directly to organisations you’re interested in, even if they’re not advertising roles. Express your interest and see if they have any upcoming opportunities.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got a range of exciting roles, including interim positions like this one. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Head of Quality & Assurance – AR in Walsall
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in Adult Social Care Quality Assurance. We want to see how your skills align with the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:This role is all about leading transformation, so don’t hold back on sharing examples of your leadership experience. We’re looking for someone who can influence and drive change, so let us know how you've done this in the past.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key achievements and experiences stand out without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Carrington Blake Recruitment
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of adult social care quality assurance and governance. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and challenges in the sector, especially regarding the transition from outsourced to in-house services. This will show that you're not just a candidate, but someone who genuinely understands the landscape.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience, particularly in driving cultural change and managing complex operational challenges. Be ready to discuss how you've influenced senior stakeholders in the past and how you plan to do so in this role. They want to see that you can lead with confidence and clarity.
✨Demonstrate Your Strategic Thinking
Think about how you would approach the redesign and implementation of a quality assurance framework. Be prepared to share your ideas on effective provider monitoring and risk management. This is your chance to showcase your strategic mindset and how you can contribute to the Council's goals.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your interest in the role and the organisation. Inquire about the current challenges they face in quality assurance and how they envision the transition process. This not only shows your engagement but also helps you gauge if the role aligns with your career aspirations.
