Head of Operational Support

This role leads a small team within HM Courts and Tribunals Service's HQ Operations directorate. It sets consistent practice across operational support services and links Operations with HQ and the wider Ministry of Justice. Distinct elements include Mock Trials grant management, media escalations and a minimum of 30 hours a week with three office days. Only existing Civil Servants and accredited NDPB employees may apply, and a DBS Basic check applies.

• Lead a small team and provide strategic people leadership within the business area
• Provide assurance to HMCTS SMT and operational Directors that National Support Unit services are embedded, aligned with priorities and compliant with governance
• Identify and lead development of new or improved processes between Regional Support Units and HQ teams
• Resolve complex, novel or sensitive operational issues
• Produce high-quality briefs and submissions for the Deputy Director or Director
• Oversee financial controls, monitoring staffing and spend and business cases needing Director-level sign-off
• Create and maintain a corporate memory strategy covering non-performance operational data
• Oversee escalation of media queries and complaints, and represent operations at national media forums
• Lead improvement projects to agreed plans
• Act as Grant Manager for the Mock Trials (Magistrates' Courts) programme, ensuring compliance with Cabinet Office functional standards
• Oversee non-jurisdictional services such as gatekeeping commissions, high-profile visits, filming and venue hire, and secretariat
• Build relationships with Directors, HQ directorates, MoJ Private Offices and Judicial Office

• Experience influencing senior leaders and key stakeholders
• Proven track record delivering improvement activities and operational projects
• Experience managing resources, including grants and team priorities

• Strong leadership and people management across dispersed teams
• Sound knowledge of HMCTS/MOJ governance, assurance frameworks and Spending Controls
• Understanding of HMCTS business planning and performance monitoring
• Knowledge of Open Justice principles, Staff Media Guidance and Grant Management Functional Standards
• Excellent written and verbal communication, including drafting briefs and presenting to boards
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

• Existing Civil Servant or accredited NDPB employee appointed on merit through fair and open competition
• DBS Basic check
• Eligible under Civil Service nationality rules

• Confident decision-making on high-profile, complex issues affecting reputation
• Proficiency in Microsoft applications
• Statement of Suitability (up to 500 words) and a behaviour example

• 25 days annual leave rising to 30 after five years, plus public holidays and one privilege day
• Scheme to buy or sell up to three days' leave a year
• Choice of Civil Service pension schemes
• Paid paternity, adoption and maternity leave
• Family-friendly policies, including reduced hours and job share
• Flexible benefits, including voluntary benefits and discounts
• Training and development opportunities
• Free annual sight tests for screen users