With a rich industrial heritage and a beautiful coastal landscape, Sunderland is known for its forward-thinking, ambitious, and modern outlook. The city is a dynamic hub of innovation and regeneration, embracing the journey of becoming a Smart City and embedding a digital-first approach. We have transformed and elevated the delivery of children’s services through Together for Children (TfC), a wholly owned company of the council, resulting in our Outstanding Ofsted judgement in 2021. Whilst we are proud of our progress, we have an unwavering passion to continue to improve outcomes for our children and young people.  

As the council’s DCS and Chief Executive for TfC, you will have the opportunity to work in a unique arrangement with the Chief Executive, Leader and Portfolio Holder of the council, and the Chair of the Board for TfC. In this dynamic role, you will lead on the statutory responsibilities of a DCS, whilst also operating as the Chief Executive of TfC, helping to set the strategic direction of the company and overseeing everything from finance to customer services. You will be at the forefront of partnership working and building strong relationships with key stakeholders, both internally and externally, to drive positive outcomes for children and young people.

This role is for someone who thrives in an innovative and solution-focused environment.  Someone who can drive efficiency and cost-effective ways of working, work across the region, and take key projects to the next level.

This is a crucial appointment for Sunderland which covers a broad portfolio and remit. You will join an ambitious team and will have the opportunity to make a real impact on the life of every child and young person across Sunderland.

To find out more or for a confidential conversation, please click the Apply Now link below or call Chris Barrow (07437 839048), Zarvesha Rasool (07551 392696), or Anita Denton (07725 554802) at Tile Hill.

Closing date: Midnight on Sunday 8th September 2024