Strategic Manager

Strategic Manager - Families First Programme North Northamptonshire Children's Trust is seeking a Strategic Manager for the Families First Programme. This role leads the Families First reform programme, working with safeguarding partners to design and deliver new approaches that strengthen families, protect children, and improve outcomes across the county. Overview As Strategic Manager for the Families First Programme, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of family help and children’s social care in Northamptonshire. This is an opportunity to influence real system change and ensure that every child in Northamptonshire has the opportunity to thrive. What will you be doing? Leading with purpose and overseeing delivery, performance, and development of the Families First Programme to achieve outstanding outcomes for children and families. Shaping transformation by co-designing and testing new models of support with local partners, embedding family‑centred and evidence‑informed practice. Building strong partnerships and ensuring the voices of family help and children’s social care are central to all programme activity and decision making. Driving excellence and overseeing quality, performance, and inspection readiness whilst ensuring continuous improvement across services. Championing the child’s voice and ensuring children and families are active partners in shaping the services that affect their lives. Reporting and influencing to produce clear, insightful reports for senior leaders, while contributing to regional and national learning through the Families First Partnership. About you You are an experienced and forward thinking leader who is passionate about improving outcomes for children and families. You combine strategic vision with the ability to turn ideas into action and inspire others to deliver their best. You Will Bring A recognised professional social work qualification (DipSW, CQSW, CSS) and Social Work England registration. Strong experience of leading complex services within children’s social care or a related setting. A deep understanding of the Families First Programme and national reform in social care. Excellent communication and influencing skills confident presenting to senior stakeholders and building trusted partnerships. A collaborative, inclusive leadership style that empowers others and drives improvement. A postgraduate qualification in management (PgCMS, PgDMS, MBA) would be a welcome addition. Above all, you will bring the energy, insight, and determination to help shape a service that keeps children safe, strengthens families, and supports every child to reach their potential. At Northamptonshire Children's Trust, safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS clearance and other pre-employment checks. Ready to Make a Difference? This is an incredible opportunity to play a leading role in shaping the future of children’s social care in Northamptonshire. We are looking for someone who can start immediately and bring energy, innovation, and vision to this vital programme. About Us Northamptonshire Children’s Trust is committed to achieving the best outcomes for children, young people and families. Our workforce is valued and empowered to do the best job possible in a culture of support and kindness. We are an equal opportunities employer with a commitment to care leavers who we guarantee an interview if they meet the essential criteria. Benefits SWE Registration paid yearly 28 days annual leave, plus 8 Bank Holidays (pro rata for part time) and an additional 5 days after 5 years Local Government Pension Scheme plus immediate life cover (3 times your annual salary from day one) and ill-health pension protection Opportunity to purchase up to 25 days annual leave Employee Assistance Programme for you and your immediate family Employee discounts with local and national retailers Flexible and family working arrangements including enhanced maternity benefits Extensive Learning & Development and career development opportunities Subsidised town centre car parking Note: This posting may include additional details and references to related roles. #J-18808-Ljbffr