At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead transformational change in Children's Social Care and improve outcomes for families.
- Company: Devon County Council, committed to innovative social care reform.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, additional payment, flexible working options, and a diverse work environment.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team dedicated to continuous improvement and sustainable change.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact on children's lives while shaping the future of social care.
- Qualifications: Recognised Social Work qualification and substantial senior leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 109708 - 109708 £ per year.
Are you ready to lead transformational change at scale and shape the future of Children’s Social Care in Devon? We are seeking an exceptional leader to drive one of the most significant periods of change in Children's Social Care, delivering transformational reform across Devon County Council.
As Assistant Director – Children’s Social Care Reform, you will play a pivotal role in designing and delivering the national Families First reforms and wider Children’s Social Care transformation agenda across Devon. Working directly with the Director of Children’s Social Care, you will provide strategic leadership for whole-system transformation, ensuring that children, young people and families experience high-quality, joined-up support that improves outcomes whilst delivering sustainable services.
This is a high-profile leadership role where you will positively influence policy, shape practice and drive lasting change across the Council and partner organisations.
What you’ll be doing
- Take a lead on the delivery of the Families First Reforms Programme and wider Children’s Social Care reform agenda.
- Drive partnership working across health, police, education and the voluntary sector to improve outcomes for children and families.
- Provide strategic leadership for the Devon Safeguarding Children Partnership and strengthen safeguarding practice across Devon.
- Lead organisational and workforce transformation, ensuring reform and operational priorities remain aligned.
- Champion continuous improvement through evidence-informed practice, inspection learning and best practice.
- Support major change programmes, including SEND reforms, Best Start in Life and Local Government Review.
- Represent Devon County Council at senior forums and deputise for the Director of Children’s Social Care when required.
Children’s Social Care in Devon is operating within a period of significant national change, increasing demand and heightened scrutiny. The role of Assistant Director – Children’s Social Care Reform offers a unique opportunity to lead development and transformational change at scale. In collaboration with political leaders, government departments, regulators and strategic partners you will positively influence services across a large and diverse county.
You will be central to preparing Devon for future inspection and assurance frameworks, embedding sustainable change and ensuring children and families receive the right support at the right time.
What we’re looking for
- We are seeking an experienced strategic leader who can inspire confidence, build effective partnerships and deliver complex change programmes.
- You will bring a recognised Social Work qualification and degree-level professional qualification (or equivalent).
- Substantial senior leadership experience within Children’s Social Care.
- Proven success at Assistant Director, Deputy Director or equivalent level within complex, politically led organisations.
- A strong track record of leading large-scale transformation and service improvement programmes.
- Extensive knowledge of safeguarding, quality assurance, Children’s Social Care legislation and national policy.
- Experience of leading services through inspection, intervention or major improvement journeys.
- Skilled in balancing ambitious outcomes with financial sustainability and effective risk management.
Join us and help shape the next chapter of Children’s Social Care. This role attracts an additional payment of £12,767 on top of the annual salary of £97,941.00 p.a.
Ready to Make a Real Difference?
If you are an experienced senior leader with the vision, credibility and drive to lead complex reform at scale, we'd love to hear from you. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference to the lives of children, young people and families across Devon.
Closing Date: 20 September 2026
Interview Date: 5 October 2026
DCC embraces the positive benefits of a diverse workforce and is committed to providing an environment that is inclusive and safe. We welcome applications from people who share our commitment to stop discrimination, challenge inequality and promote diversity across Devon.
Happy to Talk Flexible Working - The Council offers flexible working arrangements in terms of when and where people work e.g. hybrid working, part-time, condensed hours etc.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This role requires the ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence and fluency in English.
Assistant Director - Children's Social Care Reform in Exeter employer: Devon County Council
Devon County Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises collaboration and professional development. As a Lead Approved Mental Health Professional, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on mental health services while benefiting from a strong commitment to employee growth and well-being in a vibrant community setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Director - Children's Social Care Reform in Exeter
✨Dive into Local Government Events
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We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Director - Children's Social Care Reform in Exeter
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 Devon County 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 Devon County Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Devon County 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 Devon County Council.
