Executive Director

Elovate Systems Inc.; Dalkeith; On-site; GBP 126,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional local authority in Scotland is seeking a passionate Executive Director for Children, Young People and Partnerships. This critical leadership role focuses on improving outcomes for children and young people through the implementation of a world-class education strategy. The ideal candidate will have experience in leading services in a local authority setting and possess a strong background in project management and strategic planning. This permanent position offers a salary of £125,364 per annum and requires a commitment to ensure the welfare and development of the region's youth.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Qualifications

• Experience in leading and managing educational or children's services.
• Strong understanding of child welfare policies.
• Proven track record of transformational leadership in a local authority.

Responsibilities

• Lead the ongoing implementation of the education strategy.
• Manage transformative projects in the learning estate.
• Oversee the Local Child Poverty Action Plan.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Project management

Education

Relevant degree or equivalent

Job description

Executive Director – Children, Young People and Partnerships

Directorate: People and Partnerships
Grade: Chief Officer
Salary: £125,364
Location: Dalkeith and throughout Midlothian

Midlothian is the fastest growing local authority in Scotland and we are looking for a new Executive Director, Children, Young People and Partnerships who is passionate about improving outcomes for our children and young people. You will lead the ongoing implementation of our world‑class education strategy designed to create excellence and equity.

Education

This role reports to the Chief Executive and is supported by the Chief Officer Children Services, Partnerships and Communities and the Education Chief Operating Officer to deliver inclusive services for children and young people across Midlothian. Our Directorate vision is that: "All children, young people, adults, and communities in Midlothian are supported to be the best they can be. This will be achieved through a nurturing, respectful and collaborative approach that promotes wellbeing, equity, inclusion, and lifelong learning."

Key Projects

• Lead and manage planned and future transformative learning estate projects.
• Be the strategic lead for the delivery of the Local Child Poverty Action Plan in partnership with key council services and external partners.
• Lead on increasing attainment and achievement for all Midlothian learners.

Our recruitment pack provides full details of the essential and desirable criteria we are looking for candidates to possess. Under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 this post is politically restricted.

Applications must be received by 17th December 2025
Assessment Centre - 15th January 2026
Final Interview - 5th February 2026

Responsibilities

This post is considered Regulated Work with Children under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act, 2007. Therefore, it is an offence to apply if you are barred from working with children. Successful candidates will require PVG Scheme membership for Regulated Work with Children; you will be required to join the Scheme or undergo a PVG Scheme Update check prior to commencing employment with Midlothian Council. The cost of the check will be met by you. For further information on the PVG Scheme please visit www.disclosurescotland.gov.uk. Disclosure Scotland has changed the way PVG certificates are issued; you will be notified by email that your certificate is available to view. Once viewed, you may share the certificate with your employer, but it is only available for 14 days from the first day you view it. If you do not grant access before it expires, a further application will be required, and additional costs may apply.

The Individual

If you have difficulty applying for this post or accessing attached documents, or if you have a disability and reasonable adjustment is required, please email the Recruitment Team stating the post reference number.

Midlothian Council is currently undergoing a period of transformation, changing and improving the way it delivers services in Midlothian. As a consequence, there are a number of existing employees for whom we are committed to seeking suitable alternative employment within the Council in accordance with our legal obligations. Candidates are advised that, for some vacancies, internal candidates in this situation will be interviewed before the wider selection pool and a slightly longer delay may be experienced before application outcomes can be advised to you. Thank you for your patience in this matter.

If you are a trainee of a Midlothian Council Training Programme, have a disability or you are a care‑experienced young person who has previously been a looked‑after child, you are eligible for a guaranteed interview if you meet the essential criteria for the post.

Position Details

Position Title: Executive Director – Children, Young People and Partnerships
Directorate: Children, Young People and Partnerships
Location: Dalkeith and throughout Midlothian
Contract Status: Permanent
Hours of Work: 36 hours per week
Working Pattern: The hours worked will be those required to fulfil the duties and responsibilities of the position.
Weeks per year: 52
Based on 36 hours over 52 weeks per year, the minimum actual salary for this position is £125,364 per annum.