We are seeking an inspiring Service Manager to drive excellence across our Independent Reviewing, Child Protection and Local Authority Designated Officer (LADO) services.
This is a pivotal role which will shape and deliver a clear, ambitious workplan that strengthens outcomes for children, young people and families across Devon.
About us
Devon County Council is undergoing significant transformation, with rapid Children’s Social Care reforms and a strong improvement journey. Our social work teams are committed to providing the best service possible and are supported by our ambitious culture. As the largest local authority in Southwest England, we're proud of our workforce and what we are achieving for the children and families of Devon.
About the Role
You will play a vital role in delivering Devon’s Vision, driving our Strategic Improvement Plan for Children’s Services, the Children and Young People’s Plan, and key service‑wide improvement initiatives. You will champion equality, diversity and inclusion, ensuring these values shape our culture and everyday practice.
As a senior leader, you will work closely with colleagues and partners to achieve our priorities and promote continuous improvement. You will oversee countywide services, ensuring they are safe, high‑quality, cost‑effective and delivered on time. Above all, you will be a visible advocate for improving the lives of children, young people and families.
To support our teams effectively, a minimum office presence of three days per week is required.
Key Responsibilities
1. Provide strong operational leadership across Independent Reviewing, Child Protection and LADO services, ensuring high‑quality, safe and compliant practice.
2. Deliver the Operational Business Plan, overseeing performance, risk, capacity and statutory responsibilities.
3. Drive continuous improvement through robust quality assurance, data oversight and evidence‑led service development.
4. Lead complex, high‑profile projects aligned to strategic priorities, managing communication, risk and stakeholder engagement.
5. Promote integrated, innovative and effective practice that improves outcomes for children, young people and families.
6. Build strong partnerships across Children’s Services, the wider Council and external agencies to ensure seamless, joined‑up support.
7. Champion a culture of learning, development and performance improvement, including significant quality assurance activity, supporting recruitment and workforce development.
About You
We’re looking for an experienced and inspiring leader who will foster a supportive and transparent culture within Children’s Social Care - one that champions collaboration across teams and empowers staff to deliver excellence in service and professional practice.
Your skills and experience will include:
8. Strong management experience in statutory children’s social care, including oversight of high‑risk cases and complex care planning.
9. Proven track record of leading high‑quality services for vulnerable children and families, with expertise in IRO, Child Protection Chair and/or LADO services.
10. Demonstrated ability to drive performance improvement, embed quality standards and lead service change.
11. Demonstrated experience in quality assurance activities and embedding learning into practice.
12. Significant experience and knowledge of restorative practice.
13. Extensive experience supervising staff and first‑line managers, with the ability to analyse complex issues and make clear, evidence‑based decisions.
14. Significant experience working in senior multi‑agency partnerships, influencing and negotiating to improve outcomes.
15. Skilled in leading, motivating and developing a diverse workforce through change.
16. Solid knowledge of statutory frameworks including the Children Act 2004, Working Together and wider safeguarding legislation.
17. Broad understanding of national agendas affecting children’s services, including early help, safeguarding, children in care and care leavers.
18. In‑depth knowledge of government policy and the impact of emerging legislation on children’s services.
If you are ready to take on a challenging, yet highly rewarding senior position that offers you the opportunity to shape the future for children and young people, we would love to hear from you!
What’s in it for you?
In return for the vital contribution that you make, we have some fantastic employee benefits available, including:
19. A healthy work-life balance with flexible working options wherever possible
20. Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme
21. Free onsite parking
22. Employee Assistance for the times you may need some support and a variety of employee well-being services
23. Discounts at over 900 national & local high street retailers through our benefits platform
24. Cycle to work scheme
25. Electric Vehicle salary sacrifice scheme.