Assistant Director - Living and Ageing Well

The salary for this role is £87,561 - £98,431 per annum, working 36 hours per week.

Are you a visionary leader passionate about transforming adult social care and improving lives?

We are seeking an exceptional individual to join our Adults, Wellbeing & Health Partnerships directorate in the position of Assistant Director - Living & Ageing Well.

About Us

The Adults, Wellbeing & Health Partnerships directorate is on a significant and ambitious transformation programme, with a focus on driving collaboration between the Council and Health in order to deliver our joint accountabilities to improve care and wellbeing outcomes to Surrey's adult population. A key focus is on independence, prevention and early intervention strategies, tackling inequalities and improving access to services to ensure that no-one is left behind.

You'll be part of a forward-thinking leadership team, shaping the future of services for our residents. We offer a supportive and inclusive working environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a real difference.

About the Role

This is a pivotal leadership role, responsible for shaping and delivering high-quality adult social care services across a designated area of Surrey. You will lead locality and hospital-based teams, ensuring services are person-centred, outcome-focused, and promote independence and wellbeing.

You will drive strategic transformation, champion innovation, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. With a strong focus on prevention, early intervention, and tackling inequalities, you will work collaboratively across the health and social care system to deliver integrated, impactful services.

Some of the key responsibilities for this role include:

• Providing strategic leadership for operational adult social care services, including safeguarding, assessments, and continuing health care.
• Leading and inspiring high-performing teams, embedding a culture of excellence and accountability.
• Representing the directorate at local, regional, and national forums, influencing policy and championing Surrey's vision.
• Driving service transformation and integration, ensuring compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements.
• Managing significant budgets and contributing to the directorate's financial strategy.
• Building strong partnerships with health, community, and government stakeholders to enhance service delivery.

About You

We are looking for a proven and inspirational leader with the ability to work across geographies and health landscapes in conjunction with our partner Health organisations. You will be able to drive continuous improvement initiatives and promote a culture of ambition, performance excellence and accountability, aligned to public values and The Surrey Way.

Your application will clearly evidence that you have:

• A professional qualification in social care, occupational therapy, or a related health field.
• Substantial senior management experience in a complex social care environment.
• Deep knowledge of adult social care legislation, policy, and best practice.
• A proven track record of leading transformation and delivering improved outcomes.
• Political acumen and the ability to influence at all levels.
• A commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusive service delivery.

Local Government Reorganisation

Surrey County Council is preparing for Local Government Reorganisation which will allow us to implement the Government led policy of devolution, which is all about giving more powers to local areas.

Currently, Surrey has a two-tier council system, with 11 district and borough councils and a county council, all responsible for different services. All these councils will be reorganised into a smaller number of new unitary councils which will come into effect in April 2027. At this point, this role will be transferred, with all existing terms and conditions intact into one of the new unitary councils.

Join our dynamic team and shape the future of local government. Make a lasting impact with innovative solutions and improved services for our community. Help us build a brighter future for our residents!