At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage innovative programmes to reduce re-offending and protect the public.
- Company: Join the Ministry of Justice, a key player in community safety.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous leave, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Flexible working options available to suit your lifestyle.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while shaping community justice strategies.
- Qualifications: Experience in programme delivery and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 58952 - 61750 £ per year.
Accountable for the management of public protection, risk of harm and reducing re-offending, safeguarding adults and children and responsibilities to victims by ensuring strategic oversight of the delivery of appropriately targeted Accredited Programmes and Structured Interventions to People of Probation subject to community sentencing to comply with the requirements of the courts. This role will be regional based reporting directly to the Head of Interventions for their region and will be a part of the Regional Senior Management Team. The Head of Programmes has direct line management responsibility for Programme Managers and will provide leadership and strategic direction to the wider staff group within the function.
Summary
Provide leadership and be accountable for resources and the strategic and operational direction for a suite of Accredited Programmes and Structured Interventions within the region. Developing service delivery through the use of evidence-based practice to reduce re-offending and build confidence in public protection and reducing the risk of harm. They will lead, innovate, develop and be accountable for local strategies in line with the national strategic framework, and develop and maintain effective relationships with stakeholders and partners to meet statutory responsibilities and to reduce reoffending.
Responsibilities, Activities & Duties
- Overall responsibility for ensuring the effective operation of interventions provided by the programmes team. These must be provided in accordance with the Interventions Integrity Framework and all relevant organisational policies and HMPPS accreditation standards.
- Accountable for leading the implementation, delivery and performance of local strategies which influence national strategy and align with the wider HMPPS approach.
- Accountable for ensuring the defined work areas and associated activities comply with Health and Safety legislation. Ensure all risk assessments are undertaken and continuously review internal and external operating environments, including identifying and developing suitable partnerships to support Accredited Programme and Structured Intervention delivery.
- Leadership and accountability to influence the Courts, Judiciaries, Parole Boards and the Head of PDU to ensure correctly targeted interventions.
- Make decisions based on needs analysis around commissioning and decommissioning of structured interventions and accredited programmes on a continuous basis to ensure service is responsive to the needs of People on Probation and the reducing reoffending priorities.
- Work collaboratively with external stakeholders to oversee the development of new and innovative ways of working, adapting to meet the emerging demands, diversity of needs and the criteria and quality requirements of the Effective Intervention Panel in line with the PCC and local Criminal Justice Boards delivery strategies.
- Have overall accountability of performance for Accredited Programmes and Structured Interventions - ensuring resources are utilised effectively and efficiently across the Region.
- Accountable for the leadership and strategic direction of staff within the function including direct line management and associated responsibilities including recruitment, attendance and performance management, disciplinary and investigations in line with HR Policies.
- Accountable for leading quality assurance of service delivery in line with intervention integrity framework HMIP policies and recommendations and the Operational and System Assurance Group.
The duties/responsibilities listed above describe the post as it is at present and is not intended to be exhaustive. The job holder is expected to accept reasonable alterations and additional tasks of a similar level that may be necessary. Significant adjustments may require re-examination under the Job Evaluation Scheme and shall be discussed in the first instance with the job holder.
An ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence through the medium of English.
Civil Service Success Profile Criteria
Behaviours
- Seeing the Big Picture
- Making Effective Decisions
- Leadership
- Developing Self and Others
- Managing a Quality Service
- Delivering at Pace
Experience
- Experience within Accredited Programme or Structured Interventions delivery.
- Experience of planning and managing delivery over large geographical areas.
- Experience of effectively and efficiently managing financial and physical resources.
- Extensive experience of effectively leading, managing and motivating staff.
- Experience of successfully building and managing strategic and working relationships with internal and external stakeholders and partners.
- Experience of successfully managing the performance of teams and individuals to achieve high working standards.
- Experience of making complex risk management and public protection decisions.
Technical
Probation Qualification Framework Graduate Diploma/Honours Degree in Community Justice integrated with Level 5 Diploma in Probation Practice. Or a qualification which was recognised at the time of qualification by the Secretary of State for Justice as per Section 10 of the Offender Management Act 2007. The following qualifications gained in England and Wales were previously recognised as providing such eligibility:
- Diploma in Probation Studies
- Diploma in Social Work (with Probation Option)
- CQSW (with Probation Option)
22257 - Head of Programmes, West Midlands in Birmingham employer: Ministry of Justice
The Ministry of Justice is an exceptional employer, dedicated to transforming lives through education and vocational training. With a strong emphasis on supportive relationships and personal development, employees benefit from a collaborative work culture that prioritises safety and security while offering opportunities for professional growth and meaningful impact in the community. Working in this role not only allows you to make a difference but also provides a unique chance to contribute to the rehabilitation and resettlement of individuals in a dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 22257 - Head of Programmes, West Midlands in Birmingham
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
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Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
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If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace 22257 - Head of Programmes, West Midlands in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ministry of Justice
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Ministry of Justice.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Ministry of Justice that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.