Service Manager (Interim)

Position: Service Manager (Interim)

Location: Time Square, Bracknell, RG12 1JD

Start Date: ASAP

Contract Duration: 21 September 2026 to 11 December 2026

Working Hours: 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 9:00 am–5:00 pm

Pay Rate: £400.00 per day

Job Reference: (phone number removed)

Job Responsibilities

Lead the statutory Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) service both operationally and strategically.

Provide effective leadership and stability during the maternity cover period.

Oversee statutory SEND functions and ensure compliance with relevant legislation and requirements.

Drive continuous service improvement and support the ongoing development of the SEND service.

Lead service development, performance management and improvement activity.

Ensure the service is prepared for Ofsted and CQC inspections.

Build and maintain effective working relationships across council teams, services and partner organisations.

Support the delivery of high-quality statutory SEND services and positive outcomes for children and young people.

Person Specification

Must-Have Requirements

Significant, demonstrable experience of leading a statutory SEND service.

At least two years' experience in a comparable leadership role within a local authority.

Strong knowledge of SEND legislation and statutory requirements.

Proven experience managing statutory SEND functions.

A strong track record of service improvement and development.

Experience of performance management and inspection readiness, including Ofsted and CQC.

Strong leadership and partnership-working skills.

Ability to work strategically while maintaining effective operational oversight.

Nice-to-Have Requirements

Experience providing leadership during a period of organisational change or service improvement.

Experience working across multiple council services and external partner organisations.

Previous experience delivering SEND improvement programmes within a local authority.

Additional Information

This is an established leadership position within Bracknell Forest Borough Council.

Office attendance is required 1–2 days per week.

Candidates should be available to start as soon as possible.

The selection process will involve CV review and interview.

The expected dress code is smart casual