Do you want to make a real and lasting difference for children, young people and families?Are you an inspiring strategic leader with a passion for improving outcomes for care‑experienced children?If so, we’d love to hear from you.Northumberland County Council is seeking an exceptional Head of Service for Permanence, Achievement & Reunification to provide visionary leadership across our Cared for Children Teams, Care Leavers Service, Virtual School and Safeguarding in Education functions.This is a pivotal senior role shaping the future for some of our most vulnerable children.As our new Head of Service, you will:Provide strategic leadership and expert guidance on all matters relating to Cared for Children, Care Leavers and the Virtual School.Drive forward high‑quality services that prioritise permanence, reunification and educational success.Lead the development of our Corporate Parenting Strategy and strengthen engagement across the Council and key partners.Champion educational outcomes, attendance and progress for Cared for Children, Care Leavers, children in kinship arrangements and those with a social worker.Oversee performance, quality assurance and robust safeguarding practice across your service areas.Manage resources, budgets and a workforce of around 60 dedicated staff, ensuring value for money and high‑impact delivery.Build strong multi‑agency partnerships that support early help, reduce escalation into care and secure the best possible outcomes.Ensure the voice of children, young people and families actively shapes service design and improvement.Model strength‑based, relational and trauma‑informed practice across your services.You will be an experienced senior leader with:A relevant degree and Qualified Social Worker (SWE registered) or Qualified Teacher Status.A strong track record leading services in large, complex organisations.Extensive knowledge of statutory requirements, safeguarding, corporate parenting and best practice for children in care.Excellent financial and people management skills.The ability to inspire teams, build trusted relationships and lead system‑wide improvement.Strategic vision, resilience and the ability to make evidence‑based decisions that support timely permanence and high‑quality outcomes.Experience of Virtual School leadership and training in Signs of Safety or trauma‑informed practice would be advantageous.Why Join Us?Northumberland is a place of ambition, pride and opportunity.Attractive benefits including, generous annual leave, local government pension scheme, Leadership Coaching, Employee Wellbeing support for mental and Physical Health, discounted gym membership.Further informationInterviews will be held on Monday 27th April and Tuesday 28th April 2026. #J-18808-Ljbffr