Kindness as a Strategy. Inclusion as a Promise.

As a key member of the Children’s Services Leadership Team, you will lead a diverse portfolio that includes Education Effectiveness, SEND Services, Inclusion, Early Years, Education Sufficiency, Admissions, Educational Psychology and Governor Development.

Reporting to the Executive Director of Children’s Services, you’ll be the council’s lead professional for Education, SEND and Inclusion, steering a high-performing system that delivers for all learners, particularly our most vulnerable. You’ll champion inclusion, influence national and regional partners, and ensure our services are ambitious, innovative, and sustainable.

What You’ll Do

In this pivotal role, you will provide strategic leadership and direction across all areas of Education, SEND and Inclusion, working in partnership with elected Members, schools, partners and families to deliver shared priorities and improved outcomes. You will lead transformation and improvement programmes that make a tangible difference to the lives of children and young people, ensuring that every aspect of our service reflects our commitment to excellence and inclusion.

You will oversee performance and inspection readiness, embedding a culture of continuous improvement and accountability. Through strong partnership working, you will build and maintain effective relationships with local communities, education providers and national bodies to promote high standards and inclusive practice across the system.

Managing significant budgets and resources, you will ensure services are efficient, effective and sustainable - balancing innovation with robust governance. Your leadership will inspire teams to deliver exceptional outcomes and make North Northamptonshire a place where every child can thrive.

About You

You’ll be a dynamic, strategic leader with deep experience in Education, SEND or Inclusion within a large, complex organisation. You have a proven record of driving improvement, managing change, and delivering better outcomes through partnership, innovation, and co-production. You’ll bring:

• A relevant degree or equivalent qualification.

• Significant strategic leadership experience within Education or SEND.

• Strong understanding of national education and SEND legislation and policy.

• Excellent communication, influencing and relationship-building skills.

• A track record of driving improvement, managing complex budgets, and leading successful teams.

Above all, you’ll be driven by a shared vision: to ensure every child and young person in North Northamptonshire thrives and reaches their full potential.

Please note this role requires the ability to drive and use of a vehicle, as this role requires travel.