We adopt a ‘name blind’ approach to shortlisting. Recruiting managers will not have access to personal information, including your name and contact details, until a shortlisting decision has been made - please note that this also includes any CV uploaded. Equality monitoring information is not accessible by recruiting managers at any stage.
Organisation
Kirklees
Directorate
Place
Service Area
Skills & Regeneration
Hours
37
Number of Jobs
1
Location(s)
Across Kirklees
Position type
Permanent
Grade
Grade 18
Salary
£60,537 - £62,551
Advert Wording
Are you a dynamic, strategic leader passionate about skills, employment, and inclusion? Are you ready to shape the future workforce of Kirklees? If so, we want to hear from you.
About The Role
We’re looking for a
Head of Employment and Skills to lead and influence strategy and policy for employment and skills across Kirklees and West Yorkshire. This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in connecting businesses, education providers, and communities to unlock potential and drive inclusive growth.
You’ll spearhead delivery of major programmes across work and health, apprenticeships, adult and youth employment support and devolved skills budgets. You’ll also work with key partners like the University of Huddersfield, Kirklees College, C&K Careers and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority to help shape future devolution in education and training to meet the needs of a fast-changing economy—ensuring no one is left behind.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and evolve employment and skills strategies that support businesses and individuals across the district.
- Oversee a portfolio of programmes including Employment Kirklees, Adult and Community Learning, and ESOL initiatives.
- Collaborate with colleges, universities, training providers, and regional partners to align provision with demand.
- Influence major initiatives that drive uptake of apprenticeships and employer investment in workforce development.
- Provide challenge and support to skills and education leaders to drive quality and relevance in provision.
- Represent Kirklees in strategic partnerships, attracting funding and innovation to the region.
- Lead a high-performing team and inspire cross-sector collaboration.
- Champion inclusive growth, ensuring that vulnerable and disadvantaged groups have access to skills and employment opportunities.
What We’re Looking For
We’re seeking a credible, experienced leader who brings:
- Proven senior leadership in the employment and skills sector.
- Strong understanding of pathways to employment and post-16 education systems.
- Knowledge of funding mechanisms and regulatory frameworks.
- Experience in collaborative working with businesses, local government, combined authority, third sector and education providers.
- Ability to drive performance, lead through complexity, and influence at senior levels.
- A commitment to inclusion, diversity, and empowering communities.
- Strategic vision combined with operational acumen.
- A degree (or equivalent relevant experience) is essential, alongside a deep understanding of the skills landscape in Kirklees and across the region.
What You'll Bring
- Passion for inclusion, especially supporting vulnerable young people and adults.
- Strong leadership and people development skills.
- A flexible, innovative, and solution-oriented mindset.
- Commitment to safeguarding, diversity, and doing what’s right for the citizens of Kirklees.
Why Join Us?
At Kirklees Council, we’re committed to building a fairer, more inclusive, and prosperous region. You’ll be joining a forward-thinking authority that values partnership, creativity, and the power of people. This role offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact—not just on policies, but on lives.
Interviews will take place Thursday 22nd May. You will be notified via email if you have been shortlisted for interview
Edward Highfield is the manager for this role, please contact them on 01484 221000 for an informal discussion, or if you need any more information.
We know there’s a wealth of talent among people who have a disability and we encourage applications from people with all differing abilities. So, if you need any support completing an application form, or any other format for the application or Job Description please contact the Recruitment Team for help by email:or phone: 01484 221000 and ask for ‘Recruitment’.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable adults and children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Closing date
16 May 2025, 11:55 PM
Important Information
Job Profile/description
Additional document 1
