Overview
Transformation. Positive change. Visionary thinking. If these ideas inspire you, our Executive Director of Children’s Services could be your next career move. As Executive Director of Children’s Services, you will be a key member of the Corporate Leadership Team, taking on statutory responsibilities of the Director of Children’s Services while driving our ambitious vision for children, young people and families.
Operating at a strategic level, you will lead the delivery of high‑quality, inclusive and cost‑effective services, ensuring that children and young people—particularly the most vulnerable—remain at the heart of everything we do. You will also shape our wider place‑based ambitions, contributing to the BIG50 vision for North Northamptonshire.
To arrange an informal discussion, contact Rachel Girvan at rachel.girvan@northnorthants.gov.uk.
Responsibilities
* Provide strategic leadership for all Children’s Services, ensuring statutory responsibilities are met and improved outcomes delivered.
* Act as statutory Director of Children’s Services, leading safeguarding, corporate parenting and education responsibilities.
* Lead and manage the client relationship with Northamptonshire Children’s Trust, ensuring effective contract management, performance oversight and continuous improvement.
* Drive transformation and innovation, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, creativity and high performance across services.
* Work collaboratively with Members, partners and stakeholders, influencing at local, regional and national levels to secure the best outcomes for communities.
* Lead on education, early help and skills services, ensuring high standards, regulatory compliance and strong Ofsted outcomes.
* Champion partnership working, building strong relationships across multi‑agency systems to support children and young people from early years through to adulthood.
* Ensure effective governance, financial management and performance oversight, delivering value for money while maintaining high‑quality services.
Qualifications
* Substantial senior leadership experience within children’s services in a local authority, health or social care environment, at a strategic level equivalent to Director or Deputy Director.
* In‑depth knowledge of the Children’s Services landscape, safeguarding, education, statutory duties and regulatory frameworks such as Ofsted.
* Proven ability to lead in a political environment, building strong relationships with elected Members and providing expert professional advice.
* Outstanding partnership and influencing skills, with the ability to work across organisational boundaries and inspire others toward a shared vision.
* Strong commercial, financial and contract management expertise, managing large, complex budgets and commissioned services.
* A visible, values‑driven leadership style, able to motivate teams, drive cultural change and deliver results through others.
* Passion for putting children, young people and families at the heart of decision‑making, bringing energy, integrity and a clear vision for the future.
Interview Dates
26th June 2026
Benefits
* A competitive salary.
* A pension scheme with significant council contribution, life cover and ill‑health protection.
* Opportunities to develop skills, knowledge and potential in a large unitary council.
* Generous leave entitlement (28 days rising to 33 days) plus bank holidays, with option to buy up to 10 additional days.
* Hybrid and flexible working arrangements where practicable.
* Employee Assistance Programme, benefits scheme, wellbeing support, travel rates at HMRC rates and active employee network groups.
Equality and Diversity
We are proud to be a recognised Disability Confident Employer and are committed to providing an inclusive recruitment process, offering an interview to disabled applicants who meet essential criteria.
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