Head of Service – Adoption Services

Head of Service – Adoption Services

Initial 4-month Interim Contract
Inside IR35 (UMBRELLA)
£500–£525 per day
South West, Local Authority

This established position will report to the Director of Commissioning of Children’s Services and will lead the delivery of Adoption Services to meet strategic objectives and ensure high-quality outcomes. The role will oversee strategic planning, development, and management of Adoption Services, ensuring compliance with legislative, government, Ofsted, and council requirements and you will develop strategic plans in collaboration with partner organisations supporting children in care and adopted children.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic and managerial support to Adoption Services managers and staff, driving high performance and quality practice across the service.
• Act as the Registered Manager, leading on Ofsted and regulatory inspections (e.g., ICO, DBS).
• Implement effective quality assurance and performance management systems.
• Foster integrated and joint working with partner agencies and service providers.
• Manage the budget in line with grant conditions and financial targets and produce the annual Adoption Services report and implement service improvement plans.
• Ensure service user involvement in service design and development.
• Respond to national and regional policy initiatives in Adoption.
• Manage all resources effectively, including people, property, information, and finances.
• Ensure safeguarding practices are robust and inter-agency agreements are in place.
• Advise and report to the Adoption Services Operational and Strategic Boards.
• Manage staff in accordance with HR, health and safety, and financial policies.
• Undertake other duties as required by the Strategy Director.

Your Required Experience

• Minimum 2 years’ experience in a Head of Service role or higher, with expertise in corporate parenting.
• Active registration with Social Work England.
• Proven leadership with a high challenge, high support approach and a track record of service innovation.
• Subject matter expertise in Adoption.
• Available references for the most recent 2 years and an Enhanced DBS are required.

Application Process

Deadline: ASAP
Interviews: Taking place week beginning 7th July

If you’re interested in discussing this opportunity further or know someone who may be, please contact:

📞 0117 3137110
📧 s.macrae@baltimoreconsultingltd.com

(We offer a senior referral scheme upon successful placement of your recommendation – please get in touch!)

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