At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic improvements in Children's Services and drive cultural change.
- Company: Dynamic local council focused on safeguarding and community welfare.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Join a supportive team committed to safeguarding vulnerable groups.
- Why this job: Shape the future of children's services and inspire positive change in the community.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in complex organisations and a passion for social care.
The predicted salary is between 108015 - 118680 € per year.
Job Type: Full Time
Location: Dudley, West Midlands
Salary: £108,015 - £118,680 (pay award pending)
Expires: 07/06/2026
In this strategic leadership role, you will:
- Provide senior leadership across Children’s Services, driving improvement, transformation, cultural change and the delivery of key strategic plans.
- Be responsible for strategy, improvement and quality and standards, inspection readiness and for producing strategic reports and plans for local governance partnerships and national partners, including Ofsted and the Department for Education.
- Lead critical service functions such as performance, research and innovation, quality assurance, professional standards, workforce development, information governance and commissioning, ensuring statutory compliance across all areas.
- Work collaboratively with partners across the Council and external agencies to align strategy, drive improvement and ensure services are planned, monitored and evaluated to meet local needs and inspection requirements.
Who we’re looking for:
You will be a strategic, politically astute leader with a track record of delivering transformation in complex organisations; someone who inspires teams, builds strong partnerships, understands all aspects of our services, especially Social Care, and brings energy, integrity and ambition.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable groups and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults; therefore, the post is subject to medical clearance and an enhanced DBS check.
Associate Director – Quality, Performance and Improvement (Full Time) in Dudley employer: New Start
As an employer, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that empowers our employees to drive meaningful change within Children's Services. Located in Dudley, West Midlands, we offer competitive salaries and a commitment to professional development, ensuring that our team members have the resources and support they need to excel in their roles. Join us to be part of a dedicated team that values innovation, integrity, and the welfare of vulnerable groups, making a real difference in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director – Quality, Performance and Improvement (Full Time) in Dudley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those who work in Children’s Services. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation's recent projects and challenges. This shows you’re genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their strategic plans.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills during interviews. Share specific examples of how you've driven improvement and transformation in previous roles. We want to see that energy and ambition!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director – Quality, Performance and Improvement (Full Time) in Dudley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in strategic leadership and transformation. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your achievements!
Showcase Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for improving children's services shine through! We love candidates who are genuinely passionate about making a difference, so share your motivations and what drives you in this field.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This will help us understand your qualifications quickly!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at New Start
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key strategic plans and improvement strategies relevant to Children’s Services. Brush up on recent Ofsted reports and understand the current challenges facing social care. This will show that you’re not just a candidate, but someone who’s genuinely invested in making a difference.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership approach and how you inspire teams. Think of specific examples where you’ve driven transformation in complex organisations. This is your chance to demonstrate your political astuteness and ability to build strong partnerships.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations, especially around quality assurance and statutory compliance. Practise articulating your thought process and decision-making skills in these scenarios, as it will highlight your strategic thinking.
✨Align with Their Values
Familiarise yourself with the organisation's commitment to safeguarding and promoting welfare. Be prepared to discuss how your values align with theirs and share any relevant experiences that demonstrate your commitment to vulnerable groups. This will resonate well with the interviewers.
