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- Tasks: Lead service improvement initiatives and enhance partnership engagement for better outcomes.
- Company: Join a dynamic team focused on transforming Family Safeguarding and Adolescent Services.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive rate of £550 per day with hybrid working options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in children's services while driving meaningful change and improvement.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in Children’s Services, particularly in service improvement and Ofsted readiness.
- Other info: This is a senior interim role lasting 6 months, perfect for those ready to lead.
The predicted salary is between 66000 - 88000 £ per year.
Head of Service / Service Improvement Leads Location: Dudley (Hybrid – 3 days on site) Rate: £550 per day (Inside IR35, Umbrella) Duration: 6 months (20/08/2025 – 28/02/2026) Role Overview We are seeking experienced Head of Service / Service Improvement Leads to support ongoing transformation and improvement across Family Safeguarding and Adolescent Services. This senior interim role is critical in driving service improvement, ensuring Ofsted readiness, and strengthening effective partnership working. Key Responsibilities * Lead service improvement initiatives across Family Safeguarding and Adolescent Services. * Drive the strengthening of social work practice and embed best practice across the service. * Support Ofsted inspection readiness, ensuring robust evidence of progress and quality assurance. * Enhance partnership engagement with internal and external stakeholders to deliver better outcomes for children, young people, and families. * Provide strategic leadership, oversight, and challenge to ensure services are high performing and outcome-focused. * Support staff, managers, and teams through change, ensuring effective communication and clear direction. Skills & Experience Required * Proven track record in senior leadership roles within Children’s Services, ideally at Head of Service or equivalent level. * Strong experience in service improvement, transformation, and inspection readiness (Ofsted). * In-depth knowledge of Family Safeguarding and Adolescent Services. * Demonstrable ability to drive practice improvements and embed sustainable change. * Excellent partnership management and stakeholder engagement skills. * Strategic thinker with the ability to influence, lead, and inspire staff at all levels
Head of Service/Service Improvement Leads employer: Endeavour Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Endeavour Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Service/Service Improvement Leads
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the field of children's services, particularly those who have experience with Family Safeguarding and Adolescent Services. Attend relevant conferences or workshops to meet potential colleagues and learn about current trends and challenges in the sector.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest Ofsted inspection frameworks and guidelines. Understanding what inspectors look for can help you articulate your strategies for ensuring inspection readiness during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led service improvement initiatives in previous roles. Highlight measurable outcomes and the impact of your leadership on service delivery and stakeholder engagement.
✨Tip Number 4
Research StudySmarter's values and mission, and think about how your experience aligns with our goals. Being able to demonstrate a shared vision during your discussions will show that you're not just a fit for the role, but also for our organisation.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Service/Service Improvement Leads
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in senior leadership roles within Children’s Services. Emphasise your track record in service improvement and transformation, particularly in Family Safeguarding and Adolescent Services.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that directly addresses the key responsibilities outlined in the job description. Showcase your strategic thinking and partnership management skills, and explain how you can drive service improvements and ensure Ofsted readiness.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, provide specific examples of past achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead service improvement initiatives and enhance stakeholder engagement. Use metrics where possible to quantify your impact.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial for a senior role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Endeavour Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a candidate for the Head of Service role, it's crucial to highlight your previous leadership experiences. Prepare specific examples where you've successfully led teams or initiatives, particularly in children's services, to demonstrate your capability in driving service improvement.
✨Understand Ofsted Requirements
Familiarise yourself with Ofsted inspection criteria and be ready to discuss how you have prepared teams for inspections in the past. This will show your understanding of the importance of quality assurance and readiness in service delivery.
✨Emphasise Partnership Engagement Skills
Partnership working is key in this role. Be prepared to discuss your experience in engaging with stakeholders, both internal and external. Share examples of how you've built effective relationships that led to improved outcomes for children and families.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
The role requires a strategic thinker who can influence and inspire. Prepare to discuss your approach to strategic planning and how you've implemented changes that align with organisational goals. Highlight any successful transformations you've led in previous roles.
