We are focusing on prevention, reducing the number of those that come into contact with statutory services, and achieving permanency and stability for those that need our support. In this role, we are looking for an accomplished leader to support the delivery of our vision for children that come into our care, achieving great outcomes by ensuring placements are child centred and, where possible, family units are maintained. Effective decision making and permanency planning are key, along with the ability to engage colleagues and partners in the individual journeys of children and young people. In addition, quality assurance across all practice areas will be critical, championing best practice and taking action where delivery does not meet our high standards. 

We are committed to delivering our ambitious programme for transforming and improving the aspirations and opportunities for the residents of Stoke-on-Trent City Council. As the Assistant Director, Children in Care and Quality, you will help deliver the council’s ambitions to tackle inequalities that impact individuals and communities throughout our city, and support family life through leading and implementing change programmes that improve service quality and performance standards. 

To be successful in this role you will need to ensure that the corporate parenting of children in care is fully embedded into the council and its culture, deliver excellent fostering and adoption services that are timely and effectively, and act as the agency decision maker for adoption. All whilst working with colleagues to ensure that the safety, and the social and emotional needs of children and young people are at the core of decision making. Additionally, you will engage with the views and opinions of children and young people to inform how we transform and are at the heart of our strategic decision making process. 

We are open to all backgrounds and specialisms, but it is essential that you are experienced in services for children in care. As a senior officer, you will provide confident, visible, strategic and values-led leadership. You will demonstrate effective political awareness with the aptitude to promote a culture of close collaboration and working strategically. You will be an ambassador for the council, promoting our image as a city, supporting the formation of strategic alliances and developing effective working relationships on a local, regional and national basis, including the local voluntary and community sector, social enterprises, the private sector. 

Are you up for the challenge? 

If you are keen to explore how you could make a difference, we encourage you to speak to our partners at GatenbySanderson, Philip Emms (07590 225472) or Alex Hayes (07586 715 843. Or visit our microsite: teamstoke.com 

Closing date: Friday 28th June