Closing date: 11 January 2026 Help shape great education for every Derbyshire child. We’re seeking an accomplished senior education leader to provide strategic leadership across our Education services—covering the Education Improvement Service (including Early Years), the Virtual School, and Derbyshire Adult Community Education Service (DACES). You’ll lead our response to national reforms, strengthen partnerships with maintained schools and multi‑academy trusts, and deliver a school improvement offer that raises standards for all children and young people. What You’ll Do Set strategy and drive performance across Education services, with robust QA and evaluation. Lead senior advisers (incl. Early Years), the Head of DACES and the Virtual School Headteacher. Oversee performance data, benchmarking and inspection readiness (e.g., Ofsted). Build strong partnerships across schools, health and wider agencies; advise senior officers and Elected Members. Shape traded and maintained‑school improvement offers and secure best value through contracts. About You Substantial senior leadership experience in schools and a local authority/complex, politically‑led setting, including intervention in schools causing concern. Proven budget management, strategic analysis and partnership building across maintained/MAT landscapes. Outstanding communication and influencing skills, with the ability to lead through change. Enjoy being a part of our team with benefits such as: Local Government Pension Scheme Flexi time, allowing up to an additional 2 days of leave per month Derbyshire Rewards - Discounts from high street retailers and more Generous annual leave and flexi time scheme Travel expenses Discounts on leisure centre memberships Free car parking at most sites In-house counselling service Occupational Health service Access to sessions with a trained physiotherapist Cycle to work scheme Various Employee Networks championing inclusivity across the council Provisional Interview Date: 22 January 2026