SEND Operations Lead

Location: Hackney, London (Hybrid Working)
Salary: Competitive (Grade PO9)
Recruiter: We Do Social Work

We Do Social Work is delighted to be recruiting on behalf of our local authority partner for an experienced SEND Operations Lead. This is an exciting leadership opportunity for an experienced SEND professional who is passionate about improving outcomes for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

As a key member of the SEND leadership team, you will oversee the operational delivery of statutory SEND services, ensuring legal compliance, high-quality Education, Health and Care (EHC) processes, and outstanding support for children, young people and their families.

This is a hybrid position, offering flexibility alongside the opportunity to make a real impact within a forward-thinking local authority.

As SEND Operations Lead, you will:

• Lead and manage the operational delivery of SEND services and the EHC assessment and planning process.
• Ensure statutory timescales are achieved while maintaining high-quality EHC Plans.
• Oversee specialist placements and High Needs funding to ensure children receive appropriate educational provision.
• Provide strategic leadership to a multidisciplinary SEND team.
• Work collaboratively with schools, health professionals, families, commissioners and partner agencies.
• Lead on service improvement, quality assurance and operational performance.
• Provide expert advice on complex cases, tribunals and statutory compliance.
• Monitor budgets and contribute to effective resource management across the service.

We're looking for an experienced SEND leader who can demonstrate:

• Significant leadership experience within SEND services.
• Extensive knowledge of the Children and Families Act 2014, SEND Code of Practice and associated legislation.
• Experience managing statutory SEND processes and EHC services.
• Strong people management and leadership skills.
• Experience working collaboratively with schools, families, health partners and external agencies.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving and organisational skills.
• The ability to lead change and continuously improve service delivery.

A degree-level qualification or substantial equivalent SEND experience is essential, alongside ongoing professional development.

This is an opportunity to:

• Join a highly regarded local authority SEND service.
• Lead a large, experienced operational team.
• Influence strategic improvements across SEND provision.
• Make a lasting difference to children, young people and families.
• Enjoy the flexibility of a hybrid working arrangement.
• Access ongoing professional development and leadership opportunities.

If you're an experienced SEND leader looking for your next challenge, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today through We Do Social Work or contact our specialist recruitment team for a confidential discussion about the role.