Head of Service, Children We Care For
3‑6 month interim contract – immediate start
£500‑£550 per day
Inside IR35 (via umbrella)
Hybrid working – 3 days on site
CVs are being reviewed immediately and interviews will take place week commencing ASAP.
This is a career‑defining opportunity to step into a senior leadership role with real influence and impact. Reporting directly into the Deputy Director, you will lead a critical service supporting children and young people with complex needs, holding strategic oversight, operational accountability and full budget responsibility. As Head of Service, Children We Care For you will shape culture, drive improvement and ensure statutory duties are delivered to the highest standard, while keeping children firmly at the heart of every decision. You will lead a large, multi‑disciplinary workforce, working across complex systems and partnerships including health, education, commissioning and the voluntary sector. This is a visible, high‑profile role where your leadership will directly improve outcomes, reduce risk and strengthen corporate parenting responsibilities. If you are motivated by challenge, influence and the opportunity to do things differently, this is a role you will want to explore.
Your role as Head of Service, Children We Care For
* Strategic leadership of statutory Children We Care For services, ensuring compliance, quality and continuous improvement
* Accountability for budget management, driving value for money while improving outcomes for children and care leavers
* Inspirational people leadership, embedding a culture of support, supervision, learning and high performance
* Partnership influence across health, education, commissioning and third sector organisations
* Risk management and quality assurance, using data, insight and professional judgement to manage complex cases
Your experience as Head of Service, Children We Care For
* Senior leadership experience within children’s social care, operating at Head of Service or equivalent level
* Deep knowledge of looked after children, care leavers, unaccompanied children and transition into adulthood
* Proven track record of managing complex services and budgets in a high‑pressure statutory environment
* Strong background in performance management, supervision and workforce development
* Qualified social worker with current professional registration and commitment to ongoing CPD
You will be resilient, decisive and values‑driven, able to challenge constructively and lead confidently through change. In return, you will be trusted to shape the service, supported to lead flexibly and empowered to make a lasting difference.
If you're interested in discussing this opportunity in more detail, or know someone who would be a strong fit for the Head of Service, Children We Care For, please contact Sarah Macrae or Sarah Williamson (phone number removed) or apply today.
We offer a senior referral scheme upon successful placement of your recommendation, so please do get in touch.
Our clients are committed to building a diverse workforce and ensuring equality of opportunity. Recruiting decisions are based solely on skills and experience, and reasonable adjustments will be fully supported throughout the recruitment process.
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