Executive Director of Children & Young People

London Borough of Lewisham

Lewisham

  • Location Lewisham
  • Sector Local Government, Social Care
  • Client London Borough of Lewisham
  • Job Type Permanent
  • Salary/Remuneration £166,755 - £173,133
  • Reference GSe126604
  • Closing Date 9th November

Lewisham Council is seeking a bold, compassionate, and visionary leader to become our next Executive Director of Children & Families. This is a rare opportunity to lead a service that has not only achieved a ‘Good’ rating across all Ofsted domains, but is now nationally recognised for its innovation, relational practice, and commitment to equity.

Lewisham’s Children’s Services have undergone significant transformation — from a double ‘Requires Improvement’ judgement to a service praised for its care, compassion, and ability to meet the needs of young people. This improvement was driven by strategic investment, a relentless focus on quality, and the leadership of a DCS who gave confidence to the system and inspired change.

But Lewisham is not standing still. As one of ten Families First for Children Pathfinder authorities, it is helping to shape national reform. The redesign of Family Help and Multi-Agency Child Protection Teams, the School Cluster model, and the expansion of Family Hubs are already delivering impact. Lewisham is at the front edge of the curve — and intends to stay there.

The next phase is about sustainability and innovation. The council is looking for a leader who can maintain high standards and who can embed transformation through strong data, insight, and evidence-based decision-making. SEND remains a key challenge, particularly around the high needs block and system-wide collaboration with health partners amid ICB restructuring. You’ll need to bring grip, vision, and the ability to lead confidently in a complex and evolving landscape.

Whether your background is in social care or education, we are looking for an exceptional leader who: can demonstrate senior systems leadership experience, can communicate purpose with clarity, and who has the ability to build on our already strong partnerships, in a dynamic and changing environment.

This is a council that values collaboration, diversity of thought, and lived experience; we are looking for a leader that is comfortable championing anti-racist practice through demonstrable impact, not just words.

You’ll be part of a strong corporate team and work with a Mayor and elected members who are all deeply motivated to secure the best outcomes for the children, young people, and families within the borough.

This is not a role for someone looking to maintain the status quo. It’s for a leader who wants to shape a legacy, drive innovation, and make a lasting difference in the lives of Lewisham’s children and families.

Find out more by contacting our recruitment partners at GatenbySanderson: Frazer Thouard (frazer.thouard@gatenbysanderson.com) or Alex Hayes (alex.hayes@gatenbysanderson.com).

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