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- Tasks: Lead projects to enhance Special Educational Needs and Disabilities services in Essex.
- Company: Join Essex County Council, a dynamic local authority serving 1.8 million residents.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options and support for unpaid carers.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the lives of children with SEND and their families.
- Qualifications: Degree level education and experience in project management and continuous improvement required.
- Other info: This role offers a fixed term contract or secondment opportunity for up to 2 years.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 59000 £ per year.
Job Description
Continuous Improvement Project Manager – SENDFixed Term, Full Time£42,034 to £49,451 per annum Location: ChelmsfordWorking Style: Anywhere worker Please note this vacancy is available as a fixed term contract or secondment opportunity for up to 2 years. The OpportunityThe SEND Continuous Improvement Project Manager will manage several projects aimed at enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) services in Essex. The post holder will be responsible for working with subject matter experts and family representatives to gather and analyse data and lived experience, evaluate existing SEND processes and services, identify areas for improvement and collaboratively develop solutions.The post holder will have a strong background in project management, continuous improvement methodologies, strong facilitation skills.
A clear understanding of SEND processes and regulations would be advantageous.The post holder will be passionate about improving outcomes and the experiences of children/ young people with SEND and their families. They will have exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and influence a wide range of stakeholders.To read more about our business area, please visit: EducationAccountabilitiesFacilitate workshops and meetings, including multi-agency Co-ordination and Oversight Groups (COGs) with a specific remit to improve certain elements of the SEND systemManage improvement projects to ensure they deliver the desired outcomes on time and to sufficient standardsContribute to long term SEND strategic project and programme plansTrack the progress of improvement projects, analyse impact data, and report findings to senior managementDevise and oversee the delivery of change management plans to ensure improved processes and solutions are embedded as intendedProvide regular communications to the wider workforceSupport the research and evaluation of best practices, emerging approaches and national policy around SEND to inform ECC strategy and plans.Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to develop SEND servicesSupport the preparation for Ofsted/CQC inspectionThe Experience You Will BringEducated to degree level in a relevant field or equivalent by experienceQualification and significant experience in continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma).Qualification and experience in project management and/or change management or equivalent by experienceStrong analytical and problem-solving skills.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.Knowledge of SEND regulations and best practices.Evidence of continuing professional developmentPlease note that the job role requires you to be mobile throughout an operational area. Therefore, the post holder will need to have a driving licence and access to a vehicle, or the ability to meet the mobility requirements of the role through other means.Why Essex?As one of the largest and most dynamic UK local authorities, Essex offers a stimulating public service environment.
Covering over 1,420 square miles and serving 1.8 million residents, we're committed to transformational change and delivering better quality at lower cost. Recognised in the top three of the latest IMPOWER index for productivity, we ensure everyone matters in Everyone's Essex. With flexible working options and a focus on innovation, whether you are looking to develop your career or contribute to the local community, Essex is the ideal place for you.In February 2025, Greater Essex was accepted onto the Government's devolution priority programme, which will see local authorities in Essex work towards establishing a Mayoral Combined County Authority by May 2026.
You can read more about devolution and local government reorganisation (LGR) on our careers site.Essex County Council is proud to be a Disability Confident Leader. We're committed to interview all disabled applicants who choose to apply under our Job Interview Scheme if they meet the minimum requirements of the job. Please speak to our Recruiters if you require any reasonable adjustments during the process.
We're also committed to interview all veterans and care leavers, who meet the minimum requirements of the role for which they are applying.Once you've secured your role within Essex County Council you will receive many great employee benefits, including support for unpaid carers and flexible working arrangements to accommodate their needs.At Essex County Council, we value integrity and ethical behaviour. We kindly ask that you embrace our code of conduct and the Nolan principles, including throughout the recruitment process. Your commitment to these standards helps us maintain a positive and respectful workplace for everyone.As part of employment with Essex County Council (ECC) should your role require a DBS check you will be required to register with the DBS update service.
The DBS update service ensures all registered DBS certificates are kept up to date and allows authorised parties to view the status of your certificate. This is an annual subscription, and you will be responsible for ensuring this is maintained. For further information on the DBS update service please go to https://www.gov.uk/dbs-update-serviceEssex County Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment.If you would like to be kept up to date on other relevant opportunities, blogs, news, events and industry related news at Essex County Council, please join The Essex Talent CommunityIf you have queries on this role or require anything further, please email resourcing.team@essex.gov.ukFollow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.
Further details can be found on our careers page.DownloadsPay and Reward | Our Ways of Working | About Us | Organisation Behaviours
Continuous Improvement Project Manager - SEND, Chelmsford employer: Essex County Council
Contact Detail:
Essex County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Continuous Improvement Project Manager - SEND, Chelmsford
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the SEND regulations and best practices. Understanding the legal framework will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people with SEND.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the SEND field. Attend workshops, webinars, or local events to connect with others who share your passion. This can provide valuable insights and may even lead to referrals or recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific continuous improvement methodologies you've successfully implemented in past roles. Be ready to share examples of how these methods have led to tangible improvements in service delivery.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your facilitation skills by preparing to lead a mock workshop during the interview process. This will highlight your ability to engage stakeholders and manage discussions effectively, which is crucial for this role.
We think you need these skills to ace Continuous Improvement Project Manager - SEND, Chelmsford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Continuous Improvement Project Manager position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, especially around project management and SEND processes.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in continuous improvement methodologies and project management. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills in these areas, particularly any work related to SEND services.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that connects your passion for improving outcomes for children with SEND to the role. Mention your understanding of SEND regulations and how your background aligns with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Highlight Communication Skills: Since the role requires exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, provide examples in your application that showcase your ability to engage and influence stakeholders effectively. This could include experiences from previous roles or projects.
How to prepare for a job interview at Essex County Council
✨Show Your Passion for SEND
Make sure to express your genuine passion for improving outcomes for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Share any personal experiences or motivations that drive you to work in this field, as it will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Your Project Management Skills
Prepare to discuss specific examples of your project management experience. Highlight how you've successfully managed projects in the past, particularly those involving continuous improvement methodologies like Lean or Six Sigma, and be ready to explain the outcomes.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since the role involves collaborating with various stakeholders, be prepared to talk about your experience in engaging and influencing different groups. Share examples of how you've facilitated workshops or meetings to gather insights and drive improvements.
✨Understand SEND Regulations
Familiarise yourself with current SEND regulations and best practices. Being able to discuss these during your interview will demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to the role, showing that you're not just qualified but also informed about the landscape you'll be working in.
