• We are currently seeking a highly experienced Head of Service to lead adult social care services within the Learning and Disability division.

• This is a senior leadership role offering both strategic and operational oversight of statutory adult services, in line with relevant legislative frameworks such as the Care Act 2014 and Children Act 1989.

• The successful candidate will be responsible for driving service improvements, delivering high-quality outcomes for vulnerable adults, and shaping strategic direction across a complex service area.

• Provide strategic and operational leadership for services within Adult Social Care, with a focus on learning disabilities.

• Ensure the effective delivery of statutory social work services in accordance with the Care Act 2014, Children Act 1989, and associated legislation.

• Line manage Operational Managers, overseeing large multidisciplinary teams and complex caseloads.

• Promote and safeguard the wellbeing of vulnerable adults and children, ensuring all services are compliant with safeguarding standards.

• Take professional decisions on complex and high-risk cases, maintaining governance and escalation protocols.

• Lead performance management and ensure delivery of key KPIs and outcomes.

• Manage budgets and ensure efficient use of allocated resources across service areas.

• Lead on partnership development, working collaboratively with internal teams, health services, voluntary sector, and external stakeholders.

• Contribute to and deliver strategic planning, service transformation, and continuous improvement.

• Support and influence council-wide policy development and decision-making processes.

• Maintain oversight of health and safety compliance within service areas.

• Deputise for senior leadership where required.

• Substantial senior management experience in Adult Social Care or a related statutory setting.

• Proven leadership of learning disability services, or similar complex care pathways.

• Strong knowledge of the Care Act 2014, Children Act 1989, and relevant safeguarding legislation.

• Demonstrable experience managing large teams and driving service transformation.

• Skilled in budget management, strategic planning, and performance monitoring.

• Proven ability to build effective multi-agency partnerships and work collaboratively at all levels.

• Strong understanding of governance, risk management, and decision-making in high-risk social care scenarios.

• Excellent communication, leadership, and staff development skills.

• Evidence of ongoing professional development.

• Safeguarding Board training or equivalent experience preferred.

• Degree-level qualification and a professional social work qualification (e.g. DipSW/CQSW).

• HCPC or Social Work England registration (as applicable).

• Working Hours: Full-time, 37 hours per week.

• The closing date: 18/10/2025.

• This hybrid role offers flexibility with on-site presence required 2 days per week.