Head of Business Services

Lead with purpose. Collaborate for impact. Shape how the Council works.

Derbyshire County Council is continuing to strengthen its One Council approach, bringing together Business Services into a single, professional, and collaborative function that supports services to deliver the best possible outcomes for residents.

We are seeking an experienced and values‑driven Head of Business Services who is committed to continuous improvement, confident leading large‑scale services through change and is motivated by public service.

Working alongside a second Head of Business Services, you will collectively lead a workforce of approximately 600 colleagues, creating a culture that is collaborative, inclusive, accountable, and empowering, while ensuring Business Services remains responsive, efficient, and future‑focused.

What you’ll be doing

As Head of Business Services, you will:

• Provide visible, inclusive, and empowering leadership, ensuring colleagues feel supported, valued, and clear about priorities and expectations
• Work collaboratively with Executive Directors, Directors and Heads of Service to design and deliver business service solutions that are practical, proportionate, and aligned to service needs
• Lead innovation and service improvement, championing modern, streamlined processes and the use of automation and digital solutions to improve efficiency and quality
• Take collective accountability for the delivery of a high‑performing, consistent Business Services offer across the organisation
• Create opportunities for people to grow, develop, and progress through effective workforce planning, leadership development, and a strong focus on wellbeing
• Ensure robust governance, performance management, risk management, and business continuity arrangements are in place and actively reviewed

You will play a key role in supporting the organisation to meet its statutory and regulatory responsibilities, including providing assurance to senior leaders where required.

What we’re looking for

This role is suited to a senior leader who:

• Leads collaboratively, building trust and strong relationships across professional and organisational boundaries
• Is confident making clear, evidence‑based decisions and holding themselves and others to account
• Has a proven track record of leading complex services, managing large teams and delivering sustainable change
• Demonstrates political awareness, professional credibility, and the ability to influence positively at senior levels
• Aligns strongly with the Council’s values and is committed to equity, inclusion, and continuous learning

You will bring resilience, empathy, and integrity, and be comfortable navigating complexity while maintaining a clear focus on outcomes and service quality.

Why join us?

At Derbyshire County Council, we believe that great leadership is grounded in strong values. In return for your commitment, we offer:

• Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme
• 34 days annual leave plus 8 bank holidays
• Flexible and hybrid working, supporting work‑life balance
• A supportive senior leadership culture that values collaboration and shared problem‑solving
• Investment in leadership development, wellbeing, and professional growth
• Access to Derbyshire Rewards, occupational health support, and wellbeing services

Want to know more?

For an informal and confidential discussion about the role, please contact Gemma.bains@derbyshire.gov.uk or call on 01629 531890

Provisional interview date: 13 – 14 May 2026

BSM26

Apply now and take the first step towards a fulfilling career with us! By joining Derbyshire County Council you will have access to a range of amazing rewards and employee benefits, including our generous annual leave scheme, excellent local government pension and fantastic employee discounts. To discover more detail about the rewards and benefits available to you, click here

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This role currently offers hybrid working options which will be to subject service needs, there'll be an opportunity to discuss working arrangements for this position at interview.

Important: Derbyshire County Council holds a sponsorship licence, but this role does not offer visa sponsorship. Please apply only if you already have the right to work in the UK without sponsorship, as applications that do not meet this requirement will be rejected.

We welcome applications from individuals who share our values — being Collaborative, Innovative, Empowered and Accountable. These values describe who we are and what we stand for as a council. They help shape our culture, encourage consistent behaviour and guide how we work together to make a positive difference for both our employees and the residents we serve.