Medway Council are recruiting to a new and exciting role as a Chief Strategy Officer (Children's Reforms and Transformation).
Job Advert: Chief Strategy Officer (Children's Reforms and Transformation)
Location: Chatham, Kent (Hybrid working)
Contract Type: 12-month fixed term (with potential for extension)
Reporting to: Director of People (Statutory DCAS) and Deputy Chief Executive
Salary: £73,242 - £86,518 per annumAre you ready to lead one of the most ambitious transformation programmes in local government? Medway Council is seeking a visionary and strategic leader to join our People Directorate as Chief Strategy Officer (Children's Reforms and Transformation). This pivotal role will drive the design and delivery of the Families First Partnership Programme (FFPP) and wider system reform, ensuring Medway's services for children, young people and families are integrated, innovative, and future ready. The successful candidate will lead a multi-agency transformation programme across Children's Social Care, Education, SEND, and wider council services, aligning with national policy and local priorities-including preparation for potential Local Government Reorganisation (LGR).
What you'll do:
Lead strategic transformation across People Services, with a focus on children's wellbeing and safeguarding.
Oversee the implementation of the Children Wellbeing and Schools Bill and Medway's response to Families First statutory guidance.
Coordinate multi-agency delivery plans and ensure alignment with emerging unitary authority models.
Represent Medway at regional and national forums, influencing policy and advocating for system reform.
Promote digital innovation, data-led decision-making, and collaborative working across services.What we're looking for:
A senior leader with extensive experience in public sector transformation, within children's services.
Proven ability to lead complex programmes with multiple stakeholders and deliver measurable impact.
Strong strategic thinking, policy analysis, and stakeholder engagement skills.
A Master's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field and qualifications in programme management (e.g. MSP, PRINCE2).
A commitment to Medway's values, safeguarding responsibilities, and corporate parenting duties.
Highly developed understanding of National policy frameworks relevant to children's services and local government transformation (e.g. Children Wellbeing and Schools Bill).
In depth knowledge of legislation relevant to the role, including employment law, safeguarding, equality and diversity, and other statutory frameworks that impact service delivery and employee relations.Why Medway?
Medway is a place of ambition and opportunity. We're committed to improving outcomes for children and families through innovation, partnership, and transformation. Join us and be part of shaping the future of public services in Medway-and potentially across a new North Kent footprint.
CLOSING DATE 15/10/2025
Please contact for further details and a full JD is available on request