Strategic Lead - Connect to Work

LB RICHMOND UPON THAMES & LB WANDSWORTH; London; On-site; GBP 49,000 - 61,000; Full time

Job summary

LB Richmond upon Thames & LB Wandsworth seeks a Strategic Lead for the 'Connect to Work' programme aimed at enhancing employment access for individuals facing barriers. This two-year fixed-term role involves stakeholder engagement, programme delivery accountability, and management of performance metrics. The successful candidate will play a key role in fostering inclusive employment solutions within the councils.

Benefits

40 days annual leave (including Bank Holidays)

Flexible working

Generous pension plan

Qualifications

• Demonstrable knowledge of integrated employment approaches.
• Experience in delivering externally funded provision.
• Ability to manage access for people with complex barriers.

Responsibilities

• Accountable for delivery of the Connect to Work programme and performance indicators.
• Develop and manage relationships with key stakeholders.
• Oversee implementation of the CRM system.

Skills

Knowledge of large-scale employment programmes

Managing remote teams

Resource planning

Strategic development and leadership

Job description

Connect to Work – Strategic Lead

£49,939 - £60,515

Fixed Term 2 Year Contract

Full time

Wandsworth / Richmond

We are establishing a new programme within the council’s Work Match function to deliver the 'Connect to Work' supported employment programme. This ambitious initiative is part of a national roll-out by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), launched through the government's 'Get Britain Working' White Paper. It aims to address skills gaps, respond to employer needs, and drive local growth for better outcomes.

This key strategic role provides leadership for Connect to Work in Richmond and Wandsworth councils. The role involves developing and managing relationships with key stakeholders, capacity building, and ensuring appropriate processes are in place to promote referrals.

About the role

The postholder will be accountable for delivering the Connect to Work programme, including meeting key performance indicators and reporting to accountable bodies.

They will develop and maintain relationships with stakeholders such as NHS colleagues, GP practices, Public Health, Adult Social Care, and community/voluntary partners in Richmond and Wandsworth to embed the programme within their services.

The role includes strategic leadership, staff management across multiple locations, and responsibility for performance management.

The programme will utilize evidence-based models such as Individual Placement and Support (IPS) and Supported Employment Quality Framework (SEQF), which follow a 'place then train' approach.

The postholder will oversee the implementation of the CRM system within the team, ensuring management information is developed for internal and external partners.

Essential Qualifications, Skills and Experience:

• Knowledge of large-scale employment programmes that coordinate with business needs
• Experience managing remote employment support teams, resource planning, and performance management
• Proven track record delivering externally funded employment services
• Ability to develop and lead high-quality employment programmes for individuals with complex barriers

Closing Date: 20th July 2025

Shortlisting: W/C 21st July 2025

Interview: W/C 28th July 2025 (In Person)

For an informal discussion, contact Chantelle Daniel, Head of Employment and Skills, via email at [e-mail].

We may close this vacancy early once sufficient applications are received. Please apply promptly to avoid disappointment.

Richmond & Wandsworth Better Service Partnership is committed to inclusive recruitment practices, promoting equality and diversity. We value differences and believe they enhance our service delivery.

We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer. If you need reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please inform us.

We are committed to safeguarding children, young people, and vulnerable adults. Some posts require a DBS check, and appointment is conditional upon a satisfactory police records check.

We offer benefits such as 40 days annual leave (including Bank Holidays), flexible working, and a generous pension plan.