Lead services that keep children connected, supported and able to thrive.

We are looking for an ambitious, values-led Group Manager to join Regulated Services and Resources at Tower Hamlets. This is a high-profile leadership opportunity to shape services at the heart of our support for children and families, with responsibility for Fostering Development and Edge of Care and a key role in the wider leadership of the service.

The opportunity

You will provide visible, confident and inclusive leadership, translating our ambitions into high-quality practice and measurable outcomes. Working closely with the Head of Service and senior colleagues, you will build on recent progress, strengthen performance and quality assurance, and help us maintain our Outstanding services while continuing to improve outcomes for children and families.

• Lead and develop Fostering Development and Edge of Care services.
• Set a clear strategic direction and create the conditions for excellent, relationship-based practice.
• Use performance insight, audit and learning to improve quality, impact and consistency.
• Manage people, resources and budgets effectively, with robust oversight and accountability.
• Work in partnership with children, young people, families, carers and agencies to design responsive services.
• Contribute actively to the leadership and continuous improvement of Regulated Services and Resources.

About you

You will be an experienced social work leader who combines strategic thinking with a strong grip on practice, performance and delivery. You will bring energy, professional curiosity and a collaborative style, alongside the confidence to make sound decisions and lead improvement.

• A Social Work England-recognised social work qualification and current professional registration.
• Substantial post-qualifying management experience, including supervision and development of social work staff.
• Strong knowledge of the legislative and regulatory framework for children’s social care, including fostering.
• Proven experience of quality assurance, service improvement and evidence-informed decision-making.
• Experience of managing teams, budgets and competing priorities in a complex environment.
• A clear commitment to anti-discriminatory, anti-racist, transparent and partnership-based practice.

Why Tower Hamlets?

Tower Hamlets is one of London’s most diverse and dynamic boroughs. You will join a service with high ambitions for children and families and a strong commitment to learning, innovation and leadership development. You will receive regular reflective supervision and ongoing professional support from the Head of Service.

• Grade M  £64,815 - £68,265 per annum plus Recruitment & Retention Allowance of £5,020 per annum and travel allowance of £1,340 per annum
• 29 days’ annual leave, increasing to 33 days after five years’ continuous service, plus the Christmas closure period.
• Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Flexible working arrangements and the option to purchase additional annual leave.
• Learning, development and clear career pathways.
• Up to two days’ paid volunteering leave.
• Season-ticket loans, cycle scheme, eye-care support and employee discounts.
• Access to wellbeing support and discounted leisure-centre membership.

How to apply

Please complete the expression of interest form, addressing the shortlisting criteria and explaining why you are interested in the role, the relevant experience you bring and the difference you would make.

For an informal discussion:  Please contact Nji Oranu – [email protected]
Closing date: 3rd November 2026
Assessment/interview: week commencing 16th November 2026

Tower Hamlets is a truly unique borough at the heart of London – a place where history and innovation sit side by side. From the docks and markets that shaped the East End to the global business hub of Canary Wharf, we are proud to be one of the most dynamic, diverse, and ambitious communities in the UK. We are also one of the fastest growing and youngest boroughs in the country, offering unrivalled opportunities to make a real difference to people’s lives. Our residents are energetic, creative, and resilient, and our council is committed to delivering the best possible services and opportunities for them.

Our award-winning new Town Hall in Whitechapel provides a modern, flexible workplace for our staff, right at the heart of the borough and directly opposite Whitechapel Tube and Elizabeth line station. It is more than just a workplace – it’s a hub for collaboration, innovation and community, designed to bring out the best in our people.

As an employer, we put equality, diversity, and inclusion at the heart of everything we do. Our active Employee Network Groups celebrate and champion our workforce, helping to ensure that everyone feels a sense of belonging. Guided by our TOWER values – Together, Open, Willing, Excellent and Respect – we are building a positive, inclusive culture where colleagues can thrive.

At Tower Hamlets Council, you’ll find exciting challenges, supportive colleagues, and the chance to shape one of London’s most important and vibrant places. If you’re looking for a role where you can see the impact of your work every day, then Tower Hamlets is the place for you.