Senior Change and Social Value Lead

About The Role

Shape the future, make an impact, create a more equal Islington. It’s a pivotal time in the Change and Social Value team at Islington Council. As part of the Community Wealth Building directorate, we are strengthening our Change and Social Value function with a reshaped team aligned to delivering the council’s ambitions. As part of our Progressive Procurement service, you’ll play a critical role in implementing the National Procurement Policy Statement to deliver real social impact.

We’re looking for a dynamic senior leader to support the Head of Change and Social Value in guiding the council and our high‑performing team on implementing the National Procurement Policy Statement. You’ll work across the council and with external partners to deliver a programme focused on training, guidance, interventions, and quality assurance on social value and building commercial capabilities across the organisation. The core programme covers delivering value for money, driving economic growth, delivering social and economic value, and building commercial capability to deliver stronger outcomes.

What You’ll Do

• Lead on the implementation of the National Procurement Policy Statement workstream and act as a trusted advisor on complex procurement policy issues.
• Deputise for the Head of Service and contribute to the senior leadership team.
• Drive high‑quality procurement policy and strategy, governance and risk management.
• Inspire and work collaboratively with a team of specialist professionals.
• Champion social value, fairness and sustainability through every decision.

What You Bring

• Senior experience in procurement policy implementation, change, social value leadership.
• Relevant degree or professional qualification at Level 6 (or higher), or equivalent accreditation. Or, actively working towards Level 6 within 12 months (with Level 5 completed and relevant experience).
• Transforming Public Procurement certification from the Government Commercial College, or willingness to undertake within 3 months of appointment to the role.
• Active on the CIPS Professional Register or willing to apply and maintain it, plus an annual assessed supply chain ethical assessment such as the CIPS Ethical Procurement and Supply certificate, or a willingness to undertake assessment within 3 months of appointment to the role.
• Confidence navigating political and stakeholder environments.
• Excellent leadership, procurement policy and strategy skills.
• A passion for public value, ethical practice and innovation.

Why Join Us?

• Lead high‑profile, strategic change and social value work in a values‑driven council.
• Flexible hybrid “Roaming” workstyle (approx. two days weekly on site).
• Competitive salary at P08 level £66,084 - £69,660.
• Part of an organisation recognised as a Disability Confident Leader, London Living Wage Employer, Stonewall Diversity Champion and more.

How to Apply

Apply now and help us build a more inclusive and sustainable Islington. For an informal discussion, contact Charlotte Rose at charlotte.rose@islington.gov.uk.

Workforce Equality, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Statement

We are dedicated to creating an inclusive and equitable workforce, where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Our workforce strategy places equality, equity, diversity and inclusion at the heart of everything we do, reaffirming our commitment to fostering a culture of inclusion. We strive to create an environment where all colleagues feel they belong and can safely express their thoughts, ideas and challenges, without fear of judgement or discrimination. We maintain a zero-tolerance approach to any unlawful discrimination, harassment or victimisation on the grounds of any protected characteristics under the 2010 Equality Act, including but not limited to race, disability, sexual orientation, sex, religion and belief, age, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity. Any incidents of discrimination will be promptly investigated and addressed in line with our HR policies to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all colleagues.

We use data to identify and address disparities, ensuring that our policies and practices are transparent and impactful in promoting a diverse representation of backgrounds and perspectives at all levels of the organisation. We look at inequality through an intersectional lens, recognising that different aspects of someone’s identity can combine to create unique experiences of discrimination and disadvantage. We know that advancing diversity and inclusion is a continuous journey, and we must listen to our colleagues and learn where we can further improve. We work closely with our Colleague Forums and Trade Unions, supported by active allies from our Corporate Management Team, to monitor and evaluate our practices, identify barriers and empower colleagues to promote equality and inclusion in the workplace. Every one of us has a role to play in making Islington Council a truly inclusive workplace. By living out our CARE values every day and embedding the principles of equality, equity, diversity and inclusion in our work, we can all actively contribute to empowering people and creating a more equal Islington.

Pre‑Employment Checks

Any offer of employment will be subject to the successful completion of required pre‑employment checks. These may include:

• Proof of address
• Evidence of any name changes (if applicable)
• Right to work in the UK
• Overseas criminal record check (if applicable)
• Satisfactory references
• Occupational health clearance
• Evidence of professional qualifications or registrations
• DBS check at the appropriate level (if applicable)

Safeguarding

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Some posts may require a Request for Disclosure under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Disability Confident Scheme

Islington Council operates a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria and we are committed to providing support to applicants who request reasonable adjustments to be made during the recruitment process and throughout their career with us.