Jobs

Keep children safe. Strengthen families. Lead with purpose.

Lewisham is ambitious for its children and young people. We are a Pathfinder authority delivering the Families First for Children national reforms and leading the way for family-led and evidence-led practice.  We have developed strong multi-agency partnerships including schools, health and housing and we want to continue to strengthen our locality-based work to support children and families at the earliest opportunity.  We want our data and insight to drive our practice and support this with innovation and evolving technology. We’re seeking a Director of Families & Commissioning to lead front door, prevention, youth justice and edge‑of‑care services while overseeing joint commissioning, performance and quality.

Reporting to our Executive Director of Children & Young People, Sara Rahman, you’ll set the direction for a high‑performing division that combines targeted support with robust assurance and commissioning. You’ll lead adolescent safeguarding, youth justice and child protection, working with partners to intervene early and prevent escalation.

You’ll drive strategy, performance and quality across the directorate, embedding a learning culture that listens to children and acts on feedback and reviews. You’ll use data, insight and market‑shaping to secure high‑quality, cost‑effective services aligned to future need.

You’ll lead c.300 colleagues — including six Heads of Service — promoting inclusive leadership, strong supervision and clear professional standards. You’ll work closely with Health, Police, Probation and schools to tackle inequalities and ensure services reflect the strengths and diversity of Lewisham’s communities.

About you

You’re a senior leader with a strong track record in safeguarding and children’s social care, and deep understanding of the statutory framework. You combine strategic vision with operational grip, partnership skill and political awareness. You connect prevention with practice quality, leading with empathy, clarity and purpose.

Lewisham champions equality, diversity and anti‑racist practice.
Contact: Frazer Thouard (frazer.thouard@gatenbysanderson.com) or Alex Hayes (alex.hayes@gatenbysanderson.com).

Closing date: Sunday 15^th February 2026

To apply please click the Apply Now link below.