Connect2Kent exclusively recruits on behalf of Kent County Council (KCC), supporting them in hiring exceptional Social Work professionals across the county. With an Ofsted rating of 'Outstanding', KCC offers an inspiring, supportive, and forward-thinking environment where leaders can genuinely influence practice and outcomes for children and families.

We are seeking a passionate, strategic, and experienced Service Manager to join the Children's Social Work Team based in Ashford, on a temporary basis. This is a fantastic opportunity for a motivated leader ready to take the next step in their career within one of the UK's most respected Children's Services.

Job Purpose:

As the Service Manager for Children's Social Work Team, you will be directly accountable for:

• Ensuring high quality social work assessment and intervention
• Leading safeguarding practice and managing risk effectively
• Driving a culture of excellence across Children in Need and Safeguarding services
• Overseeing service delivery for children on the edge of care or entering care
• Ensuring compliance with legislation, policy, and statutory requirements
• Working collaboratively with multi-agency partners to deliver integrated services
• Managing budgets, resources, and performance across the district
• Supporting recruitment, development, and retention of social work staff
• Representing the service at key strategic and multi-agency forums
• Contributing to early intervention strategies and preventative work
• Preparing annual business plans and delivering against agreed targets

This is a pivotal leadership role where your decisions, vision, and professional expertise will directly shape outcomes for children and families across the district.

What We're Looking For

You will be a qualified Social Worker with:

• Significant experience in Children's Social Care
• Strong leadership and management capability
• A proven track record of delivering high quality safeguarding practice
• Confidence in managing complex multi-agency environments
• Excellent communication, analytical, and decision making skills
• The ability to inspire, motivate, and develop teams
• A commitment to continuous improvement and outstanding service delivery

Connect2Kent is a trading style of Commercial Services Kent LTD - A company wholly owned by Kent County Council. Connect2Kent is an equal opportunities Employment Agency & Business. It positively encourages applications from all suitably qualified and eligible candidates.