Head of Service - Provider Services

Connect2Socialwork; Chatham; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Generous allowances

Hybrid working flexibility

Job summary

A leading local authority in North Kent is seeking an experienced Head of Provider Services to lead strategic initiatives within Children's Services. This full-time role involves overseeing a £13m budget, leading Provider Services, and ensuring positive outcomes for children and young people. The ideal candidate will have a degree in Social Work, senior management experience, and strong leadership skills. The position offers competitive salary and flexible working conditions.

Qualifications

• Extensive senior management experience.
• Strong understanding of legislation and policy frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Strategic leadership and vision for Provider Services.
• Oversight of placements and commissioning expenditure.
• Drive improvements through KPIs and performance targets.
• Manage budgets and ensure financial accountability.
• Champion the voice and rights of children and young people.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Communication

Education

Degree in Social Work & Social Work England registration

NVQ Level 5 in Management or equivalent

Job description

Head of Provider Services – Kent County Council

Connect2Socialwork is recruiting on behalf of a leading local authority in North Kent for an experienced and visionary Head of Provider Services. This is a senior leadership role within Children’s Services, responsible for shaping strategies, driving service improvements, and ensuring positive outcomes for children and young people.

You’ll lead Provider Services, oversee placements and commissioning, manage a £13m budget, and play a key role in the Adoption Partnership South East. This is an opportunity to influence policy, deliver change, and make a real impact.

Compensation

• Special Allowance: £5,573 per annum
• Skill Allowance: £10,000 per annum
• Out of Hours: £3,000 per annum

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic leadership and vision for Provider Services
• Oversight of placements and commissioning expenditure
• Drive improvements through KPIs and performance targets
• Manage budgets and ensure financial accountability
• Champion the voice and rights of children and young people

What We’re Looking For

• Degree in Social Work & Social Work England registration
• NVQ Level 5 in Management or equivalent
• Extensive senior management experience
• Strong understanding of legislation and policy frameworks
• Excellent leadership, stakeholder engagement, and communication skills

Why Join?

• Competitive salary and generous allowances
• Hybrid working flexibility (minimum of 3 days in the office)
• Collaborative leadership environment

Contract: Permanent | Full-Time

Workstyle: Hybrid (minimum 3 days office-based)