Director of Early Help and School Readiness
Salford City Council
Up to £107,293
Salford has a long-standing track record of innovation and partnership working, and we are proud that our Children’s Services are rated Good by Ofsted. We are also ambitious in our goal to become a truly Child Friendly City, which means listening to children and young people, embedding their voices in our decision-making, and ensuring that services, neighbourhoods, and opportunities are shaped around their rights, wellbeing, and future aspirations.
THE ROLE
We are now seeking an ambitious and values-driven Director of Early Help and School Readiness to provide strategic leadership across early years, early help, and prevention services. This role is central to driving integrated, place-based approaches that support families earlier and promote school readiness.
You will lead Salford’s family hubs, local authority nurseries, and early help offer, working closely with partners across the council and beyond to deliver meaningful, system-wide change.
This is a rare opportunity to take on a high-profile, city-shaping leadership role, working with committed colleagues and partners to make a lasting difference for children, young people, and families across Salford.
INFORMATION
For more information contact Tim Farr on 07756 293292 / tim.farr@starfishsearch.com or Emily Lockwood on 07511 106753 / emily.lockwood@starfishsearch.com. Please click the link below to visit the Leaders in Salford website.
Role Profile CLICK HERETimeline
Closing date: 8th February 2026
Longlist meeting: 11th/12th February 2026
Technical interviews: 16th/17th February 2026
Shortlist meeting: 20th February 2026
1:1s with CEO and Executive Director of Children’s Services: 23rd February 2026
Stakeholder panels: 25th February 2026
Final panels: 26th February 2026
Useful Links
How to apply
To make an application, please click on the apply now button below, with the following prepared:
- Your CV (no more than three sides of A4).
- A supporting statement (no more than three sides of A4) that sets out why you think this role is the right move for you and how you meet the knowledge and experience criteria.
If our client is a member of the Disability Confident Scheme and you would like to apply under the scheme, please state that clearly at the top of your supporting statement, along with any adjustments you require to be made if invited for interview.
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