At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to develop policies preventing youth offending and support government initiatives.
- Company: Ministry of Justice, dedicated to improving youth justice systems.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities to work across government departments.
- Why this job: Shape policies that protect children and influence positive change in society.
- Qualifications: Experience in policy development and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
The Ministry of Justice is looking for a Grade 7 Head of Early Intervention and Prevention policy who will lead a small team to develop and deliver policy to prevent children from offending and entering the formal youth justice system. The role works across government and with arms length bodies to influence and support government policies and programmes upstream of the formal youth justice system.
Responsibilities
- Maintain a strategic overview of youth, family, education, children's social care and health policies across government and identify links and dependencies between these policy areas.
- Build strong relationships with colleagues in other government departments to influence policy development and ensure it is joined up with the Ministry of Justice’s interests.
- Ensure policy decisions are taken on the best available evidence by developing and maintaining an evidence base and strong relationships with government social policy leaders, analytical colleagues and sector experts.
- Represent the department at cross-government boards focused on relevant policy areas.
- Lead the development and delivery of the devolution programme, including devolution of certain youth justice programmes and funding streams to the Welsh Government and Greater Manchester Combined Authority.
- Lead a team of around three SEOs and one HEO, working closely with colleagues across government, policy leads across the team and department, and wider partners such as the Youth Justice Board.
- Influence and support government policies and programmes to protect children from harm and criminalisation.
Qualifications and Experience
- Experience in policy development, preferably in the youth justice system or related social policy.
- Strong analytical skills and an evidence-based approach to policy.
- Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders across government and external partners.
- Excellent communication skills, with experience presenting briefing to Ministers and senior stakeholders.
- Experience leading and managing a small team, motivating staff and delivering complex work to tight deadlines.
- Ability to influence and communicate policy in a complex and ambiguous environment.
Behaviours (assessed)
- Seeing the Big Picture
- Making Effective Decisions
- Communicating and Influencing
Head of Early Intervention and Prevention - Youth Justice in Leeds employer: Ministry of Justice
The Ministry of Justice is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on youth justice policy while working in a collaborative and supportive environment. With a strong focus on employee development, you will have access to training and growth opportunities that empower you to influence government policies and programmes effectively. Located at the heart of government, this role provides a chance to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to vital initiatives aimed at preventing youth offending.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Early Intervention and Prevention - Youth Justice in Leeds
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Ministry of Justice, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Ministry of Justice and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Early Intervention and Prevention - Youth Justice in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Ministry of Justice and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ministry of Justice
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Ministry of Justice, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Ministry of Justice.
