At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead children's services to improve lives and drive lasting change.
- Company: Award-winning local authority with a strong community focus.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunity for impactful leadership.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team dedicated to making a difference.
- Why this job: Shape the future of children’s services in a borough with clear ambition.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership skills and commitment to children's welfare.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 117800 £ per year.
This is a defining leadership opportunity in a borough with real momentum. Stockport is one of the UK’s leading local authorities – recognised nationally, ambitious locally, and clear about where we’re going next.
This is a pivotal role at a defining moment for Stockport. With a clear long term vision – OneStockport, One Future – we’re bringing partners, communities and services together to help everyone live happy, healthy lives.
The Stockport Family: A different way of working – rooted in people and place. Our model brings services together around:
- Prevention and early help
- Strengths-based, asset-led practice
- Community capacity and neighbourhood working
- Local delivery footprints for better insight and impact
The opportunity ahead: Strong foundations. Clear ambition. Space to lead. We know where we are on our journey. Inspection recognised solid foundations and committed staff – alongside areas to strengthen. That’s your opportunity to lead the next phase of progress with full organisational backing.
An independent peer review described Stockport as “an impressive organisation with strong relationships and a clear sense of purpose.”
What You’ll Lead: You will lead the next phase of improvement across:
- Children’s social care and safeguarding
- Education and SEND
- Early help and prevention
- Partnership delivery across the system
You’ll build on strong foundations, restore momentum and drive lasting change for children and families.
Who you are: A leader with purpose and presence. We’re looking for someone who brings:
- Strategic ambition and clarity
- Warmth and authenticity
- Strong partnership working
- A deep commitment to children and families
This is a rare opportunity to help shape the future of a borough with confidence, ambition and a clear sense of nationally acclaimed direction.
Closing date Sunday 28 June 2026 (midnight)
Executive Director of Children’s Services (DCS) in Stockport employer: Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council
Stockport is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead transformative change in children's services within a borough that is nationally recognised for its ambition and collaborative spirit. With a strong focus on community engagement and a commitment to professional development, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a supportive work culture built on honesty and partnership. Join us in shaping a brighter future for children and families in Stockport, where your leadership can truly make a difference.
Contact Details:
Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Director of Children’s Services (DCS) in Stockport
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to Stockport. Attend local events or webinars where you can meet potential colleagues and partners. Remember, it’s all about building relationships that can help you land that Executive Director role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership style! When you get the chance to chat with decision-makers, share your vision for children’s services. Be authentic and let your passion for making a difference shine through. This is your moment to demonstrate how you can lead with purpose and presence.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by understanding Stockport’s unique challenges and opportunities. Research their current initiatives and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will show that you’re not just interested in the role, but genuinely invested in the borough’s future.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our mission. Let’s make a difference together!
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Director of Children’s Services (DCS) in Stockport
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for children's services shine through. We want to see your commitment to making a difference in the lives of children and families in Stockport.
Be Authentic:We value warmth and authenticity, so don’t be afraid to let your personality come through in your writing. Share your unique experiences and how they’ve shaped your approach to leadership.
Highlight Your Achievements:Make sure to showcase your strategic ambition and any relevant achievements in your previous roles. We’re looking for someone who can build on strong foundations and drive lasting change, so give us the evidence!
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 ensure you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to lead in Stockport.
How to prepare for a job interview at Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council
✨Know Your Vision
Before the interview, take some time to really understand Stockport's vision of 'OneStockport, One Future'. Be ready to discuss how your strategic ambition aligns with this vision and how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership presence and authenticity. Think about times when you've successfully led teams or initiatives, especially in partnership settings, and be ready to share these stories.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Since the role involves strong partnership working, come equipped with examples of how you've fostered collaboration in previous roles. Discuss how you’ve built relationships and worked with various stakeholders to achieve common goals.
✨Demonstrate Commitment to Children and Families
Make sure to convey your deep commitment to children and families throughout the interview. Share your experiences in children's social care, education, or early help, and articulate how these experiences shape your approach to leading services.
