Jobs

Enabling People, Empowering Communities, Enhancing Places

Sandwell’s story is one of potential and striving to realise the ambitions of our borough, our residents and communities. We have been through a period of significant challenge including government intervention, but through determination and our drive for excellence, we look to the future with pride and a sense of purpose. While we have come so far, there is more to do; breaking down silos, embedding our values across the organisation, and ensuring that we continue to transform to deliver the best services for residents. Created 50 years ago from six proud towns, each unique but united by a shared identity and rich culture, Sandwell is a place built on making things happen, and where children, young people and families have the best opportunity to thrive.

Following a restructure across the organisation, including within children’s and education services, we have created three new posts within the directorate, including this role,  Service Director - Commissioning and Partnerships, leading a major portfolio including our relationship with Sandwell Children’s Trust, strategic commissioning of adoption and fostering services, and strengthening partnerships across the borough. You will lead universal preventative services including family hubs, youth and play services, supporting those children and families who need our help. We are developing a child friendly borough, where young people are at the heart of decision making, service design and delivery. Children’s services in Sandwell are ‘Good’ (Ofsted inspection 2025), and you will play a key role within the authority, working in partnership, to ensure that we continue to improve. You will also lead core functions including client services, participation and engagement, governance, data and intelligence, shape commissioning strategies and develop joint investment plans that champion the voice of children and families.

We are looking for a visionary and credible senior leader with substantial experience in commissioning within a children’s services context, a strong track record in service transformation, excellent partnership development skills and a deep commitment to making a difference for the children, young people and families of Sandwell.

If you are driven by improvement and ready to make a real impact, we would love to hear from you.

For further information speak to our executive search partners GatenbySanderson:  Rachel Salvia (07393 013 067).

Closing date: 10 April 2026

To apply please click the Apply Now link below.

Company: Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council

Salary: £95,000 – £110,000

Location: Sandwell, West Midlands, West Midlands

Sector: Corporate Services

Sector: Corporate Management Team

Sector: Health and Social Care

Job Role: Director