The Appointment Committee met to discuss the process for appointing a new Director of Children's Services. The committee was scheduled to consider the longlisting of candidates for this significant role.

Appointment of Director - Children's Services

The primary item on the agenda was the consideration of candidates for the position of Director of Children's Services. The report pack outlined the process for the longlisting of candidates, which involved the lead officer setting out the purpose of the meeting and the appointment process. A reminder was given about the need to elect a Chair who would preside over all stages of the appointment. The lead officer was scheduled to present a summary report, and committee members were to offer comments on the longlist of candidates based on their review of applications. The aim was to reach an agreement on the candidates to be included in the shortlist for the assessment centre. The report pack also included the Cardiff Council Behavioural Competency Framework, detailing the expected competencies for senior roles, such as Putting our Customers First, Getting Things Done, and Leading Change. ¹

The recruitment pack for the Director, Children's Services role highlighted the commitment to integrated service development and a preventative approach to intervention and support, designed around the needs of the child, family, and community. It stated that the post-holder would be responsible for delivering excellence in supporting and protecting vulnerable children and families, ensuring they are safe and thrive. The role involves leadership across professional boundaries and the ability to deliver change, simplify complex structures, and redesign services holistically and efficiently. The post-holder would also contribute to a cohesive cross-council approach to a change agenda vital for the Council's reputation, service delivery, and financial resilience. The net revenue budget for this role was approximately £107m.

The role requires a qualified social worker with extensive management and leadership experience. Key accountabilities include translating the Council's vision into effective strategies for Children's Services, providing high-quality advice to Cabinet Members and Councillors, and leading the formation of strategic partnerships. The Director is also responsible for ensuring the application of safeguarding policies, optimising resource use through risk-managed partnerships, and assessing the strategic impact of shifting service demands. The role encompasses areas such as Assessment and Care Planning, the Reviewing Hub, Education Safeguarding, Commissioning Teams, Youth Justice Services, and Fostering, among others. Success measures include continually improving outcomes for children and young people, achieving corporate priorities, effective resource management, and satisfaction of Councillors.