Jobs

Are you an inspirational, values‑driven professional with a passion for improving the life chances for children and young people?Dudley Council is embarking on a bold and ambitious transformation journey, and we are seeking an exceptional Principal Lead – SEND to play a vital role in shaping the future of education and inclusion across our borough.  

This is a pivotal position at the heart of our Children and Young People service. With your Associate Director and colleagues, you will drive Dudley’s strategic approach to education inclusion and SEND, ensuring that every child and young person, whatever their needs or background can access high‑quality education, support, and opportunity.  

In this strategic leadership role, you will:  

• Provide high quality strategic and operational leadership and management to Special Educational Need and Disabilities (SEND) services
• Lead and manage inclusive teams, fostering high performance and ensuring services are compliant, meet legal, statutory and governance requirements
• Translate strategic intent into effective and high-quality operational delivery, either through direct delivery or through robust commissioning arrangements across Education, Health and Social Care and in partnership with relevant services
• Support the development and delivery of the Children’s Services Improvement Plan and the SEND Improvement Plan, embedding a culture of financial responsibility, a children and family focus and service excellence 

Who we are looking for:  
You will be a strategic, politically astute leader with a track record of delivering transformation in complex organisations; someone who inspires teams, builds strong partnerships, understands education/SEND legislation, and brings energy, integrity, and ambition.  

If you are driven to make a real impact for children, families, and schools across Dudley, we want to hear from you

For further details and to apply please click the apply button.

The closing date for applications is Midnight, Sunday 7th June 2026.

The Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable groups and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults; therefore, the post is subject to medical clearance and an enhanced DBS check.

Company: Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council

Salary: £76,597 - £81,370 (pay award pending)

Location: Dudley, West Midlands

Sector: Corporate Services

Sector: Corporate Management Team

Sector: Education

Job Role: Advisor