At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead children's services and education, shaping a new authority from the ground up.
- Company: West Surrey Council, a pioneering local authority focused on community impact.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible benefits, and the chance to create lasting change.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and help build a legacy for generations to come.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative journey that influences the future of public services.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in children's services and experience in transformation and partnership working.
The predicted salary is between 161239 - 177363 £ per year.
Salary: £161,239 - £177,363 plus benefits (with flexibility for an exceptional appointment, up to £190,000)
Build the future. Shape lives. Lead change. West Surrey Council is one of the most significant new local authorities to be created in a generation. From April 2027, six existing councils will come together to form a new unitary authority serving communities across Guildford, Waverley, Woking, Surrey Heath, Runnymede and Spelthorne. This is a rare opportunity to help create a new organisation from the ground up and ensure children, young people and families are at the heart of its future.
Reporting to Susan Halliwell, Chief Executive, you will be the statutory Director of Children's Services and a key member of the Corporate Leadership Team. Beyond leading a high-performing portfolio, you will play a central role in shaping the culture, ambition and identity of a major new authority. We are seeking an exceptional leader with the vision, credibility and drive to lead children's services and education through a period of transformation and opportunity. You will bring deep professional expertise alongside the ability to operate as a strategic corporate and system leader, building partnerships, influencing outcomes and helping to shape the future of public services across West Surrey.
We are looking for:
- A proven senior leader within children's services.
- A deep understanding of statutory children's social care responsibilities.
- Experience of transformation, improvement and partnership working.
- The ability to lead within complex political and organisational environments.
- A collaborative leader who thrives as part of a high-performing executive team.
- The ambition, resilience and energy to help build something new.
Why West Surrey? Few roles offer the opportunity to shape a new authority from the outset. This is a chance to influence culture, create a lasting legacy and help define how a major council supports children, young people and families for decades to come. West Surrey is looking for leaders who are excited by possibility, comfortable with ambiguity and motivated by public service. Build the future. Lead the difference. Join West Surrey.
About Local Government Reorganisation Local government in Surrey is changing to make services simpler, more connected and better able to respond to local needs. From April 2027, Surrey County Council and the existing district and borough councils will be replaced by two new unitary authorities: East Surrey and West Surrey. West Surrey Council will bring together responsibility for essential local services including children's services, adult social care, housing, planning, highways, public health, environmental services, leisure and community services. Alongside this, Surrey is working with government on plans to secure greater devolution and unlock new opportunities for local decision-making, investment and growth.
Closing date: Sunday 8th November 2026
Executive Director Children and Education (DCS) in Guildford employer: West Surrey Council
West Surrey Council is an attractive employer due to its commitment to building a new authority that prioritizes children, young people, and families. Employees will have the chance to influence the future of public services while enjoying a supportive work culture and competitive benefits.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Director Children and Education (DCS) in Guildford
✨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 West Surrey Council, 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 West Surrey Council 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 Executive Director Children and Education (DCS) in Guildford
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 West Surrey Council 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 West Surrey Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with West Surrey Council, 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 West Surrey Council.
