Job Introduction

Bradford Children and Families Trust was established in April 2023 to bring a step change in the quality and delivery of Children’s Services across our district.
Our purpose is clear - to ensure that our promise to improve the lives of children and young people in Bradford becomes a reality. It’s a tough ask. It requires dedication, determination, and resilience – but under a new Chief Executive, Senior Leadership team and an unswerving drive to deliver the best outcomes, we are confident that we will achieve our ambition.
Working for the Bradford Children and Families Trust offers the opportunity to work with some great people who are passionate about delivering change in a city whose culture offers as much diversity as it’s geography. You can make a real difference to families and children and be an active part in delivering the service Bradford families should receive.
About the role:
In this key leadership role, you will be responsible for developing and executing the strategic objectives of the service, being the lead policy adviser for the Trust and focus on building strong relationships with the Council and other key stakeholders whilst ensuring a timely and effective information flow.
You will play a pivotal role in shaping the direction and vision of the Trust by leading delivery of the Business Plan through developing and implementing effective strategies, policies, delivery plans and communications. As the Trusts Head of Strategy and Partnerships, you will lead the Trust the development and delivery of the Trusts Annual Planning Cycle.
A key responsibility will be to ensure robust analysis of complex issues, provide strategic advice on the Strategy, Communications, Contracts and Policy recommendations to improve organisational effectiveness and to improve outcomes for children and families across Bradford and Districts.
You will lead on all aspects of strategic planning, and contributing to the development and delivery of the Business Plan and the development of the Service Plans as well as developing new services to fulfil the departments overall strategic objectives.
By fostering collaboration through a strong Communications and Engagement Strategy, to ensure strong internal and external stakeholder engagement and management, you will drive and contribute to successful service delivery through enhancing communication channels, partnership working, and the implementation of contracts held with strategic partners and our shareholders.
About you
Essentially you will have:

• Master’s degree in leadership, business or strategic planning or another relevant discipline or equivalent leadership experience.
• 5 years plus experience in a senior management role, focusing on Strategy and Planning, Communications and Engagement and/or Business Development.
• Evidence of continuing professional development.
• Proven track record of working with colleagues in other organisations to deliver strategic plans, strategic partnerships, and improved organisational outcomes.
• Experience of developing and implementing policies, business cases, bids, and equivalent strategic documents at a senior level.
• Demonstrated track record in developing and executing strategies to achieve organisational goals and enhance stakeholder satisfaction.
• Proven expertise in successfully managing complex projects, including strategic and annual planning and delivery within defined parameters.
• Excellent leadership skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire multidisciplinary teams towards common objectives.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with stakeholders at all levels, fostering collaboration and consensus.
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to anticipate and address stakeholder concerns effectively.

Benefits:

• Generous Employer Contributions in a Local Government Pension Scheme
• Competitive salary and pay progression structure.
• Real living wage as the minimum rate of pay
• Supportive carer and parental policies
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption leave
• Access to Occupational Health and confidential counselling services
• Supportive staff networks
• Access to Blue Light Card Discounts
• Professional development/support
• Career Progression
• Enhanced annual leave entitlement
• Flexible Working/Hybrid options subject to service need
• Hybrid Working Available: Yes

Want to know more?
For any queries or an informal discussion regarding the role please contact:
Stacey Reilly- PA to Assistant Director of Strategy and Governance
Tel: 07816 117794
Email: stacey.reilly@bradfordcft.org.uk