About the Job
Salary: £64,682 to £68,330 per annum. Contract: Permanent. Working pattern: Part time – 22.20 hours per week (3 days a week). Office Base Location: Hybrid working across four Local Authorities with an office base either at County Hall North, Horsham or Worthing office dependent on candidate's preference.
We're looking for a Service Manager to join our Adoption South East Senior Leadership Team. The role provides energy and leadership to Social Workers and Managers employed by all four local authorities as they assess children's adoption related needs and find the right families for children with a plan for adoption. This is a hybrid model, with an administrative office base but largely remote work. Regular team meetings will be conducted online and in person.
Responsibilities
The Service Manager will provide professional leadership focusing on child‑centred family finding, ensuring effective practices in situations of complexity, risk, uncertainty and challenge, in line with the Professional Capabilities Framework. The role involves developing and maintaining strong relationships with key stakeholders in partner Local Authorities, supporting joint working initiatives, providing local leadership for pan‑regional and national service developments, and championing children with a plan for adoption through quality assessments, effective care planning conversations and robust practice.
Experience and Skills
* Ability to deliver change and continually improve practice and performance in a supportive, positive way.
* Advanced judgement and risk‑management skills, including resource and people‑related decision making, with project‑management capability.
* Sound partnership‑working skills and ability to coordinate partners to deliver objectives.
* Capability to challenge existing practice and models of service delivery, identify innovative, outcome‑focused solutions, and apply solution‑focused leadership.
* Effective research, evaluation and interpretation skills to analyze and plan in line with legislation and national policy.
* Excellent communication skills, with ability to influence others and negotiate solutions across wide areas of the business.
* Recognised Social Work qualification (e.g. Degree, Post Graduate Certificate, DipSW, CQSW or equivalent).
* Post‑qualifying award or evidence of continuous professional development at a similar level.
* Registration with the relevant professional body and maintenance of registration.
* Recognised management qualification or evidence of continuous professional development in this area.
* Valid full driving licence.
Rewards and Benefits
West Sussex County Council values its employees, aiming for a supportive and dynamic working environment that supports a healthy work‑life balance and rewards performance.
About West Sussex County Council
West Sussex County Council is ambitious for its children and workforce, offering a stable workforce with manageable caseloads. It is proud of its inclusive workplace and invites professionals who want to contribute to positive change for children.
Further Information
Reference number: CAFHE05666.
Safeguarding and Commitment to Equality
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check, SWE registration, 5 years referencing and a health check.
West Sussex County Council is an equal opportunities employer committed to promoting an inclusive environment, free from unlawful discrimination and values the diversity of its people. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and ensure no disadvantage.
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