Executive Director

Elovate Systems Inc.; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

A public sector organization in Scotland seeks an Executive Director to lead initiatives aimed at improving outcomes for children and young people. This permanent role based in Dalkeith involves managing transformative projects and working closely with stakeholders to enhance educational achievements. The successful candidate will provide strategic leadership and must hold a current PVG Scheme membership.

Qualifications

• Strong background in leadership and strategic planning.
• Proven experience working with children and young people.
• Ability to deliver transformational change.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage transformative learning projects.
• Drive the Local Child Poverty Action Plan.
• Increase attainment for all learners across Midlothian.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Stakeholder engagement

Transformational change

Inclusivity

Education

Experience in local government or education

Job description

Executive Director – Children, Young People and Partnerships

Midlothian is the fastest growing local authority in Scotland and we are looking for an Executive Director who is passionate about improving outcomes for our children and young people. The successful candidate will lead the ongoing implementation of a world‑class education strategy that creates excellence and equity across Midlothian.

Position Overview

The post reports to the Chief Executive and is supported by the Chief Officer Children Services, Partnerships and Communities and the Education Chief Operating Officer. The Directorate’s vision is: "All children, young people, adults and communities in Midlothian are supported to be the best they can be. This will be achieved through a nurturing, respectful and collaborative approach that promotes wellbeing, equity, inclusion and lifelong learning."

• Lead and manage planned and future transformative learning estate projects.
• Be the strategic lead for the delivery of the Local Child Poverty Action Plan in partnership with key council services and external partners.
• Lead on increasing attainment and achievement for all Midlothian learners.

Responsibilities

As a regulated role under the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (Scotland) Act 2007, the Executive Director must:

• Ensure reguled work with children compliance – maintain PVG Scheme membership and coordinate PVG checks before commencement.
• Provide visible strategic leadership to drive inclusive services for children and young people across Midlothian.
• Deliver substantial transformational change programmes through effective planning, execution and assessment.
• Engage with internal and external stakeholders to promote wellbeing, equity and inclusion.

Requirements

• Position Title: Executive Director – Children, Young People and Partnerships
• Directorate: Children, Young People and Partnerships
• Location: Dalkeith and throughout Midlothian
• Contract Status: Permanent
• Hours of Work: 36 hours per week, 52 weeks per year
• Salary: £125,364 per annum (minimum actual salary for 36 hours)
• Political restriction: Local Government and Housing Act 1989
• Must hold a current and unbarred record for work with children (PVG Scheme membership required)

Application Process & Timeline

Applications must be received by 15th December 2025.
Assessment Centre: 15th January 2026.
Final Interview: 5th February 2026.

Under the Local Government and Housing Act 1989 this post is politically restricted. Candidates must be aware that internal candidates may be interviewed first as part of the council’s transformation process.
Applicants with a disability may request reasonable adjustments – please contact the Recruitment Team using the post reference number.