Head of Service - Social Care Gateway
Location: Penmorfa, Aberaeron
Salary: £88,853 - £94,961* (The successful candidate may be eligible to up to a maximum of £8,000 (including VAT) towards the cost of expenses incurred due to relocating to Ceredigion) Please note that the advertised salary for this position is subject to a pending pay award. The final salary will be adjusted in line with the nationally agreed pay award.
*All salary values are pro-rata.
Vacancy Type: Full time, Permanent.
Closing date: 10th May 2026
Are you an experienced senior leader with a strong background in social care, health or local government?
Do you have a track record of leading complex, multi‑disciplinary services, improving performance, and delivering safe, high‑quality outcomes at pace?
We're looking for an experienced, values‑driven leader to head Porth Gofal - a critical portfolio covering integrated triage and assessment, targeted and short‑term services, emergency duty and out‑of‑hours provision, direct payments and community care equipment, enablement (domiciliary care), as well as day services and residential care for adults and children.
This is a pivotal role within the Council's collective leadership model, combining clear service accountability with shared corporate responsibility.
What you'll do
- Deputise for the Statutory Director of Social Services when required.
- Act as Head of Service and lead adviser to the Council on all matters relating to Residential and Day Care Services, Integrated Triage and Assessment, and Targeted and Short‑term Services.
- Provide strategic direction and leadership within a collective management model, ensuring effective delivery of services and the achievement of corporate objectives through collaboration and shared accountability.
- Work closely with other senior leaders to develop and deliver strategic initiatives, fostering a culture of teamwork and shared decision‑making.
- Lead creatively and strategically to achieve the highest possible standards of performance across Council services.
What you'll bring
- Degree‑level qualification (or equivalent experience) in Social Care, Health or a relevant field, with evidence of continued professional development.
- Significant senior leadership experience (minimum 5 years' relevant management experience), with a proven record of leading multi‑disciplinary teams and improving services at scale.
- Strong understanding of working within a political and democratic local government environment.
- Current registration with Social Care Wales (or HCPC in England), or a commitment to meeting registration requirements.
What we can offer you
- A senior leadership role with real influence, shaping how care and support services are delivered across Ceredigion.
- The opportunity to work within a supportive, values‑led collective leadership culture, where collaboration and shared responsibility are central.
- A competitive salary at Head of Service grade (2026/27 Pay Award pending).
- Relocation support, where applicable, through the Council's Relocation Scheme (up to £8,000).
- Flexible hybrid working arrangements and a strong commitment to wellbeing.
- A comprehensive employee benefits package.
- The opportunity to live and work in Ceredigion, offering an exceptional quality of life, stunning coast and countryside, and strong community connections.
Note: We reserve the right to extend the application closing date.
To Apply
If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for Ceredigion County Council, please proceed through the following link to be redirected to our website to complete your application.
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