At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire teams to improve outcomes for children and young people.
- Company: Join BCP Council, a progressive organisation dedicated to children's services.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary and a vibrant coastal lifestyle.
- Other info: Collaborative culture focused on teamwork and shared accountability.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while shaping the future of the community.
- Qualifications: Strong leadership skills and experience in social care or education.
The predicted salary is between 170987 - 170987 £ per year.
Beside the sea, beyond expectations! At BCP Council, children and young people are at the heart of everything we do. This is an opportunity to join a council that has made significant progress. In 2025, we achieved a ‘Good’ Ofsted judgement, won the prestigious Municipal Journal (MJ) Local Government Achievement Award for Senior Leadership Team of the Year, and in 2026, secured a C1 rating for our Housing Services, marking significant progress in our improvement journey. We continue to build positively – while remaining ambitious about what comes next.
About the role
We are looking for our next Corporate Director of Children’s Services to provide energetic, values-led leadership across education, SEND, children’s social care and commissioning. This is a role for a collaborative and politically astute leader who understands that sustainable improvement comes through strong relationships, collective ownership and genuine corporate working.
At BCP Council, improving outcomes for children and young people is a collective responsibility – embedded across the whole organisation, not held within one directorate alone. As Corporate Director of Children’s Services, you’ll play an integral part in shaping the vision, direction and performance of the entire organisation and delivering the Council’s overall strategy.
There are important priorities ahead: strengthening financial grip, continuing improvement in SEND, responding to rising demand and helping shape the next phase of our organisational journey. You will inherit strong teams who are professionally curious and committed to continuous improvement, allowing you to focus on strategic leadership, visibility, partnership working and organisational influence.
Key strengths and culture
You will join an organisation where values genuinely matter and where culture, teamwork and shared accountability sit at the centre of how we lead. We are seeking someone who will bring children and young people’s voices into the heart of the organisation, while working positively across the council, with partners and within a complex political and social care system environment.
Benefits of working at BCP Council
Life at BCP Council offers the chance to combine meaningful leadership with an exceptional quality of life across one of the UK’s most vibrant coastal regions.
How to apply
Contact the recruitment partners at Penna to find out more about the role. Applicants should direct their queries to the recruiters listed below.
- Nick Raper – 07715 690463 – nick.raper@penna.com
- Amin Aziz – 07709 514141 – amin.aziz@penna.com
- Kelly Ridley – 07709 512415 – kelly.ridley@penna.com
Job Information
Company: Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole Council
Salary: £170,987
Location: Christchurch, Dorset
Sector: Corporate Services / Corporate Management Team / Health and Social Care
Job Role: Corporate Director
Corporate Director for Children’s Services (DCS) employer: Kirklees Metropolitan Council
BCP Council is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and development of its employees while making a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people. With a strong focus on collaboration, values-led leadership, and a commitment to continuous improvement, you will thrive in a supportive work culture that encourages professional growth and innovation. Located in the picturesque coastal region of Christchurch, you will enjoy a fulfilling career alongside a vibrant lifestyle, making it an ideal place for those seeking both purpose and quality of life.
Contact Details:
Kirklees Metropolitan Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Corporate Director for Children’s Services (DCS)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on the Corporate Director role at BCP Council or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research BCP Council’s recent achievements and challenges, especially around SEND and financial grip. Show them you’re not just a candidate but someone who genuinely understands their mission and can contribute to their vision.
✨Tip Number 3
Be visible! Attend relevant events or forums where BCP Council is involved. Engaging with the community and showcasing your passion for children’s services can help you stand out as a committed leader ready to make a difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Corporate Director for Children’s Services (DCS)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience:Before you start writing, take a moment to understand BCP Council's values and priorities. Tailor your application to reflect how your experience aligns with their mission of improving outcomes for children and young people.
Showcase Your Leadership Style:As a potential Corporate Director, it's crucial to highlight your leadership approach. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to foster collaboration, build strong relationships, and drive sustainable improvement within teams.
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your application. BCP Council values genuine voices, so don’t hesitate to share your passion for children's services and how you plan to bring their voices into the heart of the organisation.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves and helps us get to know you better!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kirklees Metropolitan Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest developments in children’s services, SEND, and social care. Familiarise yourself with BCP Council's recent achievements and challenges, as this will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership approach and how it aligns with the council's values. Think about examples where you've successfully led teams through change or improvement, especially in a collaborative environment.
✨Engage with the Vision
Be ready to articulate your vision for the future of children’s services at BCP Council. Consider how you would bring children and young people's voices into decision-making processes and how you can foster strong relationships across the organisation.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions that demonstrate your understanding of the role and the council's priorities. This could include inquiries about their strategies for improving SEND or how they plan to strengthen financial grip while maintaining service quality.
