Who You Are You are educated to degree level in a relevant discipline or possess a post-graduate professional or management qualification. You have extensive knowledge of the SEND system within a Local Authority environment and a proven track record of managing complex programmes, including SEND transformation. Your strong analytical and problem-solving skills are complemented by project and programme management, leadership, and team-working capabilities. You can draw on subject matter expertise as needed across various domains including SEND, healthcare, social care, and education. You are adept at persuading and influencing at all levels, as well as thinking strategically and analytically to plan and execute programmes. You demonstrate a deep understanding of the changing role of local authorities, the issues facing local government, and how these impact service areas. Your experience includes leading new ways of working and delivering cultural change in high-profile, complex systems, alongside a demonstrable grasp of the Efficiency Agenda, Value for Money, Business Improvement Techniques, and Performance Management. What the Job Involves You will lead, develop, and oversee priority 5 of the Council’s SEND and AP Strategy, focusing on the delivery of a DSG management plan in Sutton. The role requires working with various staff and stakeholder groups to enhance Ordinarily Available Provision in schools, manage specialist commissioning, and review funding arrangements. You will collaborate with seconded headteachers and Cognus education services to establish guidance for SEND needs, reducing EHCNA numbers, and creating standardized Ordinarily Available Provision (OAP) models. The job involves launching transition plans, reviewing SEND commissioning strategies, and creating sufficient specialist provisions in the Borough. You will develop strategies to strengthen SEMH provisions and ensure scrutinization of high-cost placements. Furthermore, you will review decision-making and cost-control processes, aiming for efficient resource allocation to high-need children. Establishment of effective systems, dashboards, and funding models to optimize SEND resources and support mainstream inclusion are also crucial. Your responsibilities include developing inclusive education, health, and social care provisions and nurturing stakeholder relationships to ensure engagement and successful implementation of change.