SEND Reform Lead: Strategy & Implementation

EMEA3 Recruitment; Chichester; On-site; GBP 72,000 - 76,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Local government pension

30 days holiday (plus buy extra)

Flexible working options

Training and development opportunities

Job summary

West Sussex County Council is seeking a SEND Reform Implementation Lead to shape and deliver the SEND Reform and Transformation Programme at a county level. You will drive cross‑agency collaboration across education, health and care, to create proactive and inclusive services for children and families.

You will lead strategic change, balance statutory requirements with capacity and budget sustainability, and influence decision-making at senior levels within a complex public sector environment.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of statutory responsibilities of the Local Authority regarding The Children and Families Act 2014, and SEND Code of Practice, 'Every Child Achieving and Thriving' (2026) and associated guidance.
• Experience at a strategic level within a school, local authority or public body with demonstrable positive impact.
• Experience of working with statutory partners to develop and delivery strategic responses to systemic issues.
• Experience of working with schools and settings; data and budget management experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of long-term change programmes, balancing statutory compliance, service capacity and financial sustainability.
• Provide expert advice, build strong relationships and influence decision-making across organisational boundaries.
• Align your work with wider Council priorities to drive improvements for children and families.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic leadership

Policy translation

Effective communication

Negotiation

Influencing

Education

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) - Desirable

Job description

West Sussex County Council is seeking a SEND Reform Implementation Lead to shape and deliver the SEND Reform and Transformation Programme at a county level. You will drive cross‑agency collaboration across education, health and care, to create proactive and inclusive services for children and families.

You will lead strategic change, balance statutory requirements with capacity and budget sustainability, and influence decision-making at senior levels within a complex public sector environment.