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 YOU

We are looking for a proven and inspirational leader with the ability to work in a constantly changing and pressured environment. You will have proven experience of successful collaboration with Health partners 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 relevant health discipline, with appropriate registration.
• Substantial senior management experience in a complex social care environment.
• Deep knowledge of adult social care legislation, policy, and best practice, including the Mental Health Act (1983 and 2007) and the Mental Capacity Act (2005).
• A strong track record of managing risk, leading transformation, and delivering high-quality services.
• Political acumen, strategic thinking, and the ability to influence a wide variety of stakeholders across systems and sectors.
• A commitment to equity, inclusion, and empowering individuals through personalised care.

OUR VALUES

Our values are as important as our abilities and shape who we are as an organisation. Discover more about our values.
Before submitting your application, we recommend you read the job description. Our Life at Surrey handbook provides insights of the culture at Surrey and how as a valued employee, you can help shape our Council.
Our Commitment

Surrey County Council is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. A guaranteed interview will be offered to all disabled applicants where:

• The candidate has evidenced the minimum criteria for the role through their application
• The candidate has chosen to share that they have a disability on the application form

Our application form and onboarding process will provide an opportunity to request any reasonable adjustments for the interview and/or the role. We want to be an inclusive and diverse employer reflecting the community we serve and particularly welcome applications from all underrepresented groups

THE SALARY FOR THIS ROLE IS £87,561 - £98,431 PER ANNUM, WORKING 36 HOURS PER WEEK.

Are you a visionary leader with a passion for transforming mental health services? Do you thrive in complex systems and want to make a real difference in the lives of adults across Surrey? If so, we invite you to join us as our next Assistant Director – Mental Health.

ABOUT THE ROLE

This is a pivotal leadership role within the Adults, Wellbeing & Health Partnerships directorate, responsible for shaping and delivering high-impact mental health and prison services, including Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS). You will work closely with the Director for Lifelong services to lead a team of senior managers and oversee a budget of approximately £33.5 million, ensuring services are person-centred, innovative, and aligned with statutory requirements.
You will champion a culture of excellence, continuous improvement, and integrated care, working closely with internal teams and external partners across health and social care. Your leadership will be instrumental in driving strategic transformation, improving outcomes, and promoting independence and wellbeing for Surrey’s adult population.

Some of the key responsibilities for this role include:

• Providing strategic leadership for mental health and prison services, ensuring high-quality, responsive, and compliant service delivery.
• Leading operational transformation and service development aligned with the Council’s vision and priorities.
• Representing the directorate at local, regional, and national forums, influencing policy and advocating for Surrey’s interests.
• Ensuring safeguarding, risk management, and regulatory compliance are embedded across all services.
• Fostering collaborative partnerships with health, community, and government stakeholders to promote integrated care.
• Driving performance through effective budget management, KPIs, and a culture of accountability and innovation.

The contractual base for this role is the Council’s headquarters at Woodhatch Place in Reigate, however travel around the County for meetings and visiting teams is required. Agile working is supported, meaning you can work however, whenever, and wherever suits you best around requirements to physically attend a Surrey location.