Head of Policy, Partnerships and Scrutiny

Head of Policy, Partnerships & Scrutiny

Senior Leadership Role | Permanent

Shape the future of governance, policy and partnerships in Wirral. This role leads a high‑performing team covering corporate policy, strategic partnerships and overview & scrutiny, reporting to the Assistant Director for Governance & Corporate Support.

Responsibilities

• Drive a revitalised policy function, ensuring the Council Plan is translated into clear, deliverable priorities and measurable outcomes
• Lead and embed a strong performance and assurance framework, oversee monitoring of the Council Plan, and provide high‑quality reporting to Cabinet and Scrutiny Committees
• Champion effective overview and scrutiny, strengthening its impact, independence and influence within the new governance model
• Invigorate partnerships across the public, private and voluntary sectors, delivering collaborative leadership to tackle Wirral’s key challenges
• Support the transition to Cabinet governance by designing and embedding new processes, roles and ways of working
• Provide strategic advice to Members and senior officers, ensuring policy, governance and scrutiny are aligned and effective

Candidate Profile

• Significant senior leadership experience in policy, governance, scrutiny or corporate services within local government or a comparable setting
• A strong track record of developing impactful policy and performance frameworks
• Deep understanding of local authority governance, including scrutiny and decision‑making processes
• Experience of working closely with elected members and senior stakeholders, providing clear, trusted advice
• Proven ability to lead organisational change, particularly within governance or operating model transformation
• Passion for partnership working, with the ability to build influence beyond organisational boundaries

Interview Information

Interviews to be held: 24th July 2026

This role is politically restricted.

Benefits and Working Environment

Wirral Council values diversity, inclusion and wellbeing. Employees enjoy a strong flexible working approach, hybrid working options, family‑friendly initiatives and an annual leave package starting at 28 days plus public holidays. Benefits include staff discounts, pension scheme participation, immediate life cover and ill‑health protection.

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