Executive Director of Children's Services

# Executive Director of Children's Services Your differences make us different - #achievetogether## About the role
** Transformation. Positive change. Visionary thinking.
** If these ideas inspire you, our Executive Director of Children’s Services role 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 the 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. You will ensure that children and young people—particularly the most vulnerable—remain at the heart of everything we do.

You will also play an influential role in shaping our wider place-based ambitions, contributing to the BIG
50 vision to make North Northamptonshire a proud, prosperous and forward-looking place where all residents can thrive.

If you are interested in this opportunity and would like to arrange an informal discussion, please contact Rachel Girvan at
** rachel.**### What will you be doing?

In this high-profile leadership role, you will:

Provide strategic leadership for all Children’s Services, ensuring the Council meets its statutory responsibilities and delivers improved outcomes for children and families.
* Act as the statutory Director of Children’s Services, leading on 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 our 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### About youWe are looking for a collaborative, inspirational and resilient leader who is passionate about improving the lives of children and young people

You will bring:
* Substantial senior leadership experience within children’s services in a local authority, health, or social care environment, including experience operating at a strategic level equivalent to Director or Deputy Director roles in children’s service.
* In-depth knowledge of the Children’s Services landscape, including 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, with experience of managing large, complex budgets and commissioned services.
* A visible and values-driven leadership style, able to motivate teams, drive cultural change and deliver results through others.

Above all, you will be passionate about 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**### Our benefits

Here at North Northamptonshire Council, we’re transforming for the better, using all our creativity and imagination to create the best life for our local people.

You’ll find that we have a wide range of careers that may be more surprising than you think!

Why choose us?

We offer a vibrant working environment with:
* a competitive salary
* a pension scheme, where we pay a…