At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a transformative children's services programme across the East Midlands.
- Company: Join SDSA, a not-for-profit with a strong track record in regional collaboration.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 days annual leave, a generous pension, and hybrid working options.
- Other info: Be part of a pioneering initiative with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while shaping regional care reform.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership skills and experience in children's services or regional collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 110000 £ per year.
Salary: £100,000-£110,000
Location: Leicester, with hybrid working and regular travel across the East Midlands
Hours: Full-time, 37.5 hours per week
Contract: Fixed-term contract or secondment opportunity until 31st March 2028 (with continuation subject to funding and approval)
Start Date: September 2026
Role Overview
As Regional Care Collaborative (RCC) Director, you will help lead one of the most significant children’s services reform programmes currently being developed nationally. You will help shape the future of regional collaboration across the East Midlands, building trust across ten local authorities and multiple partners, developing the region’s strategic commissioning capability, and helping create better, more stable lives for children in the care system. As the founding Director, you will provide strategic leadership for the establishment, mobilisation and delivery of the East Midlands RCC and be responsible for translating the agreed vision, governance framework, delivery plan and national requirements into a high‑performing and sustainable regional function. You will set the tone, culture and ambition of the partnership from its earliest stages and play a major role in establishing the East Midlands as a leading region for collaborative reform and innovation.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide strategic leadership for the establishment, mobilisation and long‑term development of the East Midlands RCC.
- Work with local authorities and partners across the region to strengthen sufficiency, improve outcomes for children and young people, and deliver the region's shared vision for children's care.
About SDSA
The RCC Core Team will be hosted by SDSA, the East Midlands’ long‑established business support partner. SDSA is a not‑for‑profit organisation with a strong track record of supporting education, children’s services and regional collaboration since 2005.
Employee Benefits
- 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Generous pension scheme
- Hybrid working arrangements
How to apply
For more details about the role and how to apply download the application pack from https://sdsa.net/recruitment/. Submit your supporting statement, application form and CV to jobs@sdsa.net.
Closing date Sunday 23rd August 2026
Interviews held Thursday 10th September 2026
All applications will be acknowledged. If you have not received confirmation within 24 hours, please call 0116 299 5942.
Regional Care Cooperative (RCC) Director employer: SDSA
SDSA is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead transformative children's services in the East Midlands. With a strong commitment to employee growth, a generous benefits package including 27 days of annual leave and a robust pension scheme, and a collaborative work culture that values innovation and regional partnership, SDSA empowers its employees to make a meaningful impact in the community. The hybrid working arrangements further enhance work-life balance, making it an attractive place for dedicated professionals looking to drive positive change.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Regional Care Cooperative (RCC) Director
✨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 SDSA, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
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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.
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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 SDSA and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
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We think you need these skills to ace Regional Care Cooperative (RCC) Director
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 SDSA 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 SDSA
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with SDSA, 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!
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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 SDSA.
