As a modern, flexible and effective organisation, we’re driven to make a positive difference to the children, young people, families and communities we serve, and to the careers of our people.
That’s why, when you join us as Service Manager, you’ll be encouraged to bring fresh thinking, provide confident leadership and help shape high-quality independent safeguarding and reviewing arrangements across Suffolk.
Reimagine the possibilities.
Your role and responsibilities
As Service Manager for Children’s Independent Statutory Services, you will provide strategic leadership and oversight across Suffolk’s independent statutory functions for children in care and child protection.
You will:
What you will need
To be successful in this role, you will bring:
You can view a full list of requirements in the Job and Person Profile, which you can find in the ‘How to apply’ section towards the bottom of this advert.
If you believe you can succeed in this role, apply. Even if you don't meet all requirements, still apply. We would appreciate the opportunity to consider your application.
The team
Children’s Independent Statutory Services is made up of experienced and passionate professionals who provide independent oversight, review and challenge to ensure children and young people receive the support they need.
You will lead and support a highly skilled team, creating an environment that promotes professional excellence, continuous learning and high-quality practice. Together, the team plays a vital role in driving positive outcomes and ensuring the voices of children and young people remain at the heart of decision-making.
What we will offer you
In return, we offer:
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced leader looking to drive service improvement, support excellent practice and lead a dedicated team delivering vital statutory services.
Empowering Everyone
We’re big believers in potential, possibility and the power of different ideas. We’re always searching for ways to encourage, respect and enable everyone to be the best they can be. We want to represent the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all individuals, especially those from groups that are currently underrepresented in the organisation, as shown in our Workforce Equality Report.
For more information
Please contact Allison Hassey (she/her) for a casual conversation. You can reach her by calling 07717302309 or emailing [email protected]
How to apply
Step 1 - Read the Job and Person Profile (Word).
Step 2 - Click ‘Apply Now’ to start your online application.
Step 3 - Upload a supporting statement answering the following questions below (no more than 400 words per question). You should use the Supporting Statement template (Word).
Tell us about a time when you provided independent oversight and challenge that led to improved practice or better outcomes for children and young people. What was your role and what was the impact?
How do you lead, support and develop experienced practitioners within statutory children’s social care services to ensure high-quality practice and continuous improvement?
Describe how you would use performance data, quality assurance findings, and feedback from children, families and partner organisations to evaluate service effectiveness and drive improvement within Children’s Independent Statutory Services.
Step 4 - Upload a CV (Curriculum Vitae) (without name and personal details).
Please note: Without a supporting statement and CV, your interest will not be progressed. Any supporting documents must be in either PDF or MS Word format
For guidance on completing your application, please see our How to Apply page.
Planning to use Artificial Intelligence (AI)? Please ensure your application still reflects your own skills, experience and ideas. If used inappropriately, your application may not be processed. Please read our guidance for using AI to understand what’s acceptable.
Do you need any reasonable adjustments to help you to apply? If you are disabled and/or have additional support needs, you can request reasonable adjustments. You can do this by contacting our Recruitment Team by emailing [email protected] or calling 03456 014412. You can find examples of possible adjustments on our Reasonable Adjustment pages.
Closing date: 11.30 pm, 27 September 2026.
Interview date: 5 October at West Suffolk House, Bury St Edmunds.
Promoted as FJ (Featured Job) on Suffolk Jobs Direct.
This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts. #LI-Hybrid
As a modern and effective council, we offer a wide variety of careers to suit people with a range of skills, abilities and ambitions. We offer working options that flex to reflect the way people work today and take the time to understand and support your individual needs. We’re driven to make a positive difference to the world around us and encourage everyone with drive and focus to join us and build an influential and impactful career. Reimagine the possibilities.
In return, you’ll enjoy:
If you want to know more about our benefits, values and equality commitments please visit our Suffolk County Council careers website (careers.Suffolk.gov.uk).
Job details are sourced from the employer's original posting.
Open job postingAbout the company
Suffolk County Council is a local government authority providing a wide range of public services to the residents of Suffolk, England.