Carers NE Strategic Lead

Full‑time – 37 hours
Fixed‑term until 31 March 2027 (with ongoing funding discussions)
Base: This post is hosted by North Tyneside Carers’ Centre on behalf of the regional partnership.
Salary: £40,000 pa Closing date: 7 August 2026 Interview date: week commencing 17 August 2026

Make a difference to unpaid carers across the North East We are seeking an exceptional strategic leader to drive forward Working for Carers, a specialist regional employment support programme for unpaid carers across seven local authority areas. This is a rare opportunity to shape a high‑profile Trailblazer initiative, influence regional systems, and lead a programme that removes barriers, improves access to employment, and strengthens economic inclusion for unpaid carers.

• Shape and oversee a consistent regional delivery model.
• Ensure high‑quality engagement, assessment, action planning and progression support.
• Build and maintain strategic partnerships across employment, health and skills systems.
• Drive programme sustainability and influence future commissioning.
• Line‑manage the Employability Manager and Employer/Digital Manager.
• Lead quality assurance, monitoring, evaluation and reporting functions.
• Champion safeguarding, risk management and safe practice across all delivery partners.
• Represent the programme at senior regional forums.

Regular travel across the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority area is required, so access to a car and a full driving licence are essential.

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in senior leadership or programme management.
• Experience managing managers or multi‑layered teams.
• A strong track record in employability or workforce development.
• Experience influencing employer practice and developing business cases.
• Strong performance management and reporting skills.
• Excellent analytical skills and digital competence, including CRM systems.
• Understanding of the barriers unpaid carers face entering or sustaining employment.

You will be a confident communicator, a relationship‑builder, and someone who can provide constructive challenge while driving continuous improvement.

You’ll be part of a collaborative regional partnership committed to improving opportunities for unpaid carers and influencing carer‑inclusive employment across the North East. The chance to lead a flagship regional programme with national significance.

For further information about the role, please contact the Operations Manager at North Tyneside Carers’ Centre on .