At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the transformation of education and inclusion for children and young people in Dudley.
- Company: Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council, committed to improving life chances for all children.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team dedicated to driving positive change in the community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on vulnerable learners and shape the future of education.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in education/SEND with a passion for inclusion and transformation.
The predicted salary is between 108015 - 118680 € per year.
Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council is seeking a visionary Associate Director – Education, Inclusion & SEND to play a central role in shaping the future of education and inclusion across our borough. This is a pivotal senior leadership position at the heart of our Children and Young People service. You will drive Dudley’s strategic approach to education inclusion and SEND, ensuring that every child and young person, whatever their needs or background, can access high-quality education, support and opportunity.
In this strategic leadership role, you will:
- Champion inclusion and excellence by driving a bold vision for education inclusion and SEND, improving outcomes for vulnerable learners and ensuring strong statutory compliance.
- Build powerful partnerships with schools, health, social care and parent carers, ensuring children, young people and families shape the services they use.
- Deliver timely, high-quality support across SEND services, EHCPs, early help, transitions, admissions, transport and fair access.
- Modernise and transform services, leading innovation, integrated working, programme management, risk oversight and a data-led performance culture.
- Influence and lead across the council, supporting transformation, digital change, commissioning and strong governance while managing significant budgets and upholding the highest ethical standards.
Who we’re looking for:
A strategic, politically astute leader with a track record of delivering transformation in complex organisations. Someone who inspires teams, builds strong partnerships, understands education/SEND legislation, and brings energy, integrity and ambition.
If you’re driven to make a real impact for children, families and schools across Dudley, we want to hear from you.
For an informal discussion please contact John Macilwraith, Director of Children & Young People, via Alia Siddique.
For more information and to apply, please visit Children First Dudley.
Applications close: Midnight Sunday 7th June 2026. Please submit your CV and supporting statement with your application. Your supporting statement should be Arial 12 and no more than 4 pages.
The recruitment process consists of technical interviews with longlisted applicants to confirm the shortlist. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to assessment centres, stakeholder panels and attend final interviews. The final stage will be held w/c 20th July 2026. Please indicate any periods you are unavailable.
Workplace Attendance: Working in the office 3+ days a week (pro-rata) or onsite full time.
All applicants must be able to provide documentation to prove their right to work in the UK. Please note: Dudley MBC does not currently offer sponsorship for candidates without the Right to Work in the UK.
If you require support completing an online or paper application form and/or interview techniques, please contact Dudley Adult and Community Learning on 01384 818 143.
If you have a disability and require assistance in making an application, please contact the HR Resourcing Team.
Dudley Council will check the information that you have provided against any details already held for accuracy and completeness.
Associate Director - Education, Inclusion and SEND employer: WMJobs
Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a culture of inclusion and excellence in education. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will have the opportunity to lead transformative initiatives that directly impact the lives of children and young people in the West Midlands. The council promotes a collaborative work environment, offering hybrid working arrangements and a competitive salary, making it an ideal place for passionate leaders to thrive and make a meaningful difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director - Education, Inclusion and SEND
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education sector, especially those connected to Dudley Council. Attend local events or webinars to make connections and show your passion for improving education and inclusion.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research Dudley’s current initiatives in education and SEND. Be ready to discuss how your vision aligns with their goals and how you can drive transformation in their services.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style! During interviews, share examples of how you've inspired teams and built partnerships in previous roles. Highlight your strategic thinking and ability to navigate complex organisations.
✨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, it shows you’re serious about joining Dudley Council and making a difference.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director - Education, Inclusion and SEND
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Associate Director role. Highlight your leadership experience in education, inclusion, and SEND to show us you’re the right fit!
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement:Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us about your vision for education inclusion and how you've driven transformation in previous roles. Keep it clear and concise, and remember to stick to the 4-page limit.
Showcase Your Partnerships:We want to see how you’ve built strong partnerships in your past roles. Share specific examples of how you’ve collaborated with schools, health services, and families to improve outcomes for children and young people.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised!
How to prepare for a job interview at WMJobs
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest education and SEND legislation. Dudley Council is looking for someone who understands the complexities of these areas, so brush up on relevant policies and frameworks to demonstrate your expertise.
✨Show Your Vision
Prepare to articulate your bold vision for education inclusion and SEND. Think about how you can improve outcomes for vulnerable learners and be ready to share specific strategies or initiatives you would implement to drive change.
✨Build Connections
Dudley Council values strong partnerships, so think about how you can foster collaboration with schools, health services, and parent carers. Be prepared to discuss examples of how you've successfully built relationships in previous roles.
✨Be Data-Driven
Highlight your experience with data-led performance culture. Be ready to discuss how you’ve used data to inform decision-making and improve service delivery in past positions, as this will resonate well with the council's focus on modernising and transforming services.
