Transformation. Positive change. Visionary thinking. If these ideas inspire you, our Executive Director of Children's Services role could be your next career move. As Executive Director of Children's Services, you will be a key member of the Corporate Leadership Team, taking on the statutory responsibilities of the Director of Children's Services while driving our ambitious vision for children, young people and families. Operating at a strategic level, you will lead the delivery of high‑quality, inclusive and cost‑effective services. You will ensure that children and young people – particularly the most vulnerable – remain at the heart of everything we do. You will also play an influential role in shaping our wider place‑based ambitions, contributing to the BIG50 vision to make North Northamptonshire a proud, prosperous and forward‑looking place where all residents can thrive, and providing strategic leadership for all Children’s Services, ensuring the Council meets its statutory responsibilities and delivers improved outcomes for children and families.
Responsibilities
- Act as the statutory Director of Children’s Services, leading on safeguarding, corporate parenting and education responsibilities.
- Lead and manage the client relationship with Northamptonshire Children’s Trust, ensuring effective contract management, performance oversight and continuous improvement.
- Drive transformation and innovation, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, creativity and high performance across services.
- Work collaboratively with Members, partners and stakeholders, influencing at local, regional and national levels to secure the best outcomes for our communities.
- Lead on education, early help and skills services, ensuring high standards, regulatory compliance and strong Ofsted outcomes.
- Champion partnership working, building strong relationships across multi‑agency systems to support children and young people from early years through to adulthood.
- Ensure effective governance, financial management and performance oversight, delivering value for money while maintaining high‑quality services.
Qualifications
- Substantial senior leadership experience within children’s services in a local authority, health, or social care environment, including experience operating at a strategic level equivalent to Director or Deputy Director roles in children’s services.
- In‑depth knowledge of the Children’s Services landscape, including safeguarding, education, statutory duties and regulatory frameworks such as Ofsted.
- Proven ability to lead in a political environment, building strong relationships with elected Members and providing expert professional advice.
- Outstanding partnership and influencing skills, with the ability to work across organisational boundaries and inspire others toward a shared vision.
- Strong commercial, financial and contract management expertise, with experience of managing large, complex budgets and commissioned services.
- A visible and values‑driven leadership style, able to motivate teams, drive cultural change and deliver results through others.
- Right to work in the UK before commencement of employment.
- Two references required.
- DBS clearance mandatory.
Legal right to work: In accordance with Home Office guidance, successful candidates must evidence their right to work in the UK before commencement of employment.
North Northamptonshire Council does not hold a Skilled Worker Sponsorship Licence, therefore we will decline any applications from candidates who require sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route.
Benefits
- Generous Time Off – Enjoy up to 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays, rising to 31 days after five years of service. You can even buy up to two extra weeks.
- Pension – The UK’s largest local government pension scheme, plus peace of mind with life cover worth three times your salary.
- Enhanced Family & Caring Support – Benefit from enhanced parental and carers leave to focus on life’s biggest moments.
- Everyday Perks – Discounts on groceries, holidays, cycle‑to‑work scheme, discounted parking in local parks, discounted gym membership, and more.
Contact Details:
North Northamptonshire Council Recruitment Team
