Head Of Service

Description:

Nottinghamshire County Council’s Children’s Services is seeking an accomplished and highly motivated Head of Service for Strategic Safeguarding to lead and shape critical safeguarding operations and policies across the county. This senior leadership role provides a unique opportunity to influence practice, strengthen safeguarding strategies, and ensure the welfare of children and young people.

The successful candidate will be responsible for operational and strategic leadership within Children’s Services, acting as a systems leader across the Nottinghamshire Safeguarding Children Partnership. This includes leading key improvement initiatives, such as the joint Neglect Strategy for Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, and representing Children’s Services in key safeguarding and partnership forums.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead a portfolio of safeguarding services, including the Independent Chair Service, the Managing Allegations against Professionals Service, and the Nottinghamshire Safeguarding Children Partnership Business Unit.

• Chair the Channel Panel and act as lead for Children’s Services in the Prevent Agenda, shaping approaches to countering the risk of radicalisation among children and young people.

• Actively contribute to delivering the Government’s Children Social Care Reforms, including involvement in the Families First for Children Programme.

• Work collaboratively with other Heads of Service to develop the vision for Multi-Agency Child Protection Teams and future Independent Chairs Service.

• Operate as an Agency Decision Maker for Adoption and Fostering and take a leadership role in secure panels.

• Provide direct line management for up to 6 Children’s Service Managers, ensuring effective delivery and continuous improvement.

• Stay connected to practice by overseeing operational services while driving forward strategic safeguarding objectives.

Requirements:

• Significant leadership experience in Children’s Social Care, Safeguarding, and Multi-Agency Partnership working.

• Strong strategic vision with the ability to influence policy, procedure, and service delivery at a senior level.

• Expertise in safeguarding practices, child protection frameworks, and multi-agency collaboration.

• Ability to lead complex services, manage senior teams, and engage effectively with key stakeholders.

• Enhanced communication, leadership, and decision-making skills.

• A commitment to safeguarding, equality, diversity, and inclusion in public service.

Salary & Benefits:

• Annual salary of £62,470 – £69,070 (£5205 – £5755 per month).

• Permanent, full-time contract (37 hours per week).

• Hybrid working arrangements across various council offices.

• Opportunities to shape local and regional safeguarding policies.

• Commitment to career progression and leadership development.

• Disability Confident Leader accreditation with guaranteed interview for disabled applicants meeting essential criteria.

• Flexible job share scheme available.

Interview Date: 10th or 13th November 2025
Closing Date: 19 October 2025, 23:55