Lead For Inspection, Professional Standards & Audit
Lead For Inspection, Professional Standards & Audit
Type: Permanent, Full Time
Salary: £45,467 to £53,490 per annum
Location: Chelmsford
Working Style: Fixed-base worker
Closing Date: 1st May 2025
The Opportunity
Children and Families is a service that promotes social work development within a culture of collaboration, integrity, and compassion. The role involves leading management and oversight of inspection activities such as Ofsted, Multi-Agency Joint Targeted Area inspections, and SEND Inspections, providing quality assurance for inspection preparation. The post requires building credible relationships with senior leaders and representing the service externally.
Accountabilities
* Provide expertise and guidance on statutory inspection frameworks for Children's Social Care.
* Develop plans to prepare the service for inspection activities, minimizing risks, and maintaining 'Ofsted readiness'.
* Engage and prepare staff for inspections, managing their anxieties and expectations.
* Build relationships with partners and Ofsted inspectors, ensuring quality and accuracy of disclosures.
* Coordinate and deliver the Inspection portfolio for Essex Children and Families.
* Analyze inspection outcomes and lead reporting to drive improvements, including developing presentations and workshops.
* Support audit activities within the Professional Standards & Audit Service and related projects.
The Experience You Will Bring
* Educated to RQF level 3 or equivalent experience, with project delivery or support experience.
* Operational knowledge of children and families' services and familiarity with inspection frameworks.
* Strong communication skills, able to influence and negotiate with stakeholders.
* Use of initiative, judgment, and decision-making in quality assurance.
* Ability to work flexibly, proactively, and adapt to change.
* Resilience, ability to work under pressure, and IT proficiency, especially with Excel and report writing.
The Successful Candidate Will Be
* A proactive self-starter with confidence in working independently.
* A resourceful problem solver and highly organized.
* Experienced in managing complex projects and engaging with senior stakeholders.
* An excellent communicator, capable of drafting guidance and engaging diverse audiences.
* Interested in national social work policy and inspection processes.
Why Essex?
Essex offers a dynamic environment with flexible working options, committed to innovation and community contribution. The county is part of the Government's devolution agenda, working towards establishing a Mayoral Combined County Authority. Essex County Council is a Disability Confident Leader and values integrity and ethical standards. Benefits include support for unpaid carers, flexible working, and safeguarding commitments.
For more information, visit our website and join The Essex Talent Community for updates. Queries can be directed to resourcing.team@essex.gov.uk. Follow us on social media for more news and opportunities.
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