Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and young people? Do you have a track record of driving operational excellence and ensuring the most vulnerable are supported?

Bedford Borough Council is looking for a dynamic and visionary Director of Children's Services to lead our committed team in improving educational opportunities and safeguarding children. As a key strategic leader, you will play a crucial role in maximising the life chances of all children and young people in our community.

The successful candidate will have a proven ability to work collaboratively with others, champion diversity and inclusion, and create a common purpose across the organisation. You will be responsible for implementing cultural change, organisational development, and contributing to the council's strategic plans and policies.

As Director of Children's Services, you will lead, motivate, and empower your team, nurturing the leaders of the future. You will seek innovative solutions, effectively manage all resources within budget, and meet targets to ensure the best outcomes for children and young people.

If you are a dedicated and forward-thinking professional with a passion for making a difference, we want to hear from you. Join us in creating a brighter future for the children and young people in our community.

The Council is committed to offering you a good work-life balance, which includes agile working arrangements. We offer a relocation scheme if applicable, 27 days of annual leave (increasing to 32 days after 5 years’ service) plus bank holidays, compensated by a competitive salary and a generous pension scheme.

Apply now for the opportunity to lead our dedicated children's services team to even greater heights.

Closing date for applications will be 11.00pm on 31 May 2024

Stakeholder panels (virtual) will be 12 June 2024

Member interview (in person) will be 13 June 2024

For an informal discussion about the position, please contact Laura Church, Chief Executive, 01234 718200.

How to apply
Please upload a current CV and a document detailing how you meet the selection criteria for the role.  The selection criteria can be found in the job profile below.  Optional templates are provided below.  If you do not upload both documents the panel may be unable to score your application.

Please note:
The Council will not normally re-employ ex-employees in receipt of:
·     a severance payment (within 12 months of leaving)
·     a local government pension (applies to Senior Officers only)
unless the appointment is business critical

Bedford borough Council is a member of the Armed Forces Covenant, we pledge to interview any eligible job applicant who meets the minimum criteria for the job they are applying for.

Bedford Borough Council is  a Level 2 Disability Confident employer and guarantees to interview anyone with a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the role they are applying for.