Job Description Interim Programme Manager – Children's Services Transformation Location : Yorkshire (Hybrid Working) Contract Type : Interim (15 months) Working Pattern : Four days per week Daily Rate : £600-650 (Outside IR35 / Statement of work approach – TBC) Role Overview We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Interim Programme Manager to lead the transformation of our Children's Services Directorate. The successful candidate will be pivotal in ensuring the delivery of a new service model by April 2026, aligning with Department for Education (DfE) frameworks and achieving long-term sustainability. This is a high-profile role requiring exceptional leadership, strategic oversight, and stakeholder engagement skills. Key Responsibilities Programme Leadership : Deliver a comprehensive transformation programme to align services with the DfE-defined structure, ensuring compliance and readiness for future inspections. Strategic Planning : Develop and implement a robust plan to embed a culture of continuous improvement, moving the service beyond baseline compliance. Financial Oversight : Drive cost-effective solutions, identifying and delivering significant savings while maintaining high service standards. Stakeholder Engagement : Collaborate with senior leadership teams, chief executives, and other stakeholders to ensure alignment and buy-in across all levels. Milestone Delivery : Oversee and ensure the timely achievement of key project milestones, with clear reporting against progress and outcomes. Risk Management : Identify and mitigate risks to ensure the programme remains on track and delivers the intended impact. Person Specification Essential : Substantial experience at Head of Service or Assistant Director level within Children's Services or Social Care. Proven track record of successfully delivering large-scale transformation projects in local government or related sectors. Strong understanding of DfE frameworks, compliance requirements, and inspection readiness. Exceptional stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and persuasively. Demonstrable experience in financial planning and delivering cost-saving initiatives. Ability to work under pressure and deliver results within tight deadlines. Desirable : Experience working with statement of work or milestone-based deliverables. Background in embedding continuous improvement frameworks within public sector services. Social work qualified (SW England) Key Details Reporting Line : The role will report directly to the Director of Children’s Services. Contractual Terms : Interim, with potential milestone-based remuneration through a statement of work approach. Start Date : As soon as possible, with interviews scheduled for February 2025. How to Apply Interested candidates should submit their CV, along with a brief proposal outlining their approach to the role, by 10am 15th January. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. For further information or to arrange an informal discussion, please contact James Eddison. This role offers a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on the future of Children's Services in a region committed to excellence. If you have the vision, skills, and experience required, we would love to hear from you.