A recent MJ & Local Futures survey placed York amongst the Top 5 UK cities in which to do business and the same survey ranked skills in the city as the best overall.

These achievements are based on York's position as a recognised centre of excellence for education, with its two nationally and internationally renowned universities, two further/higher education colleges and an unparalleled education system that places the city amongst the leading authorities in the country for both Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 4 results.

However, there is potential for further progress; productivity in the city is not as strong as our businesses require and we wish to see a consistently high level of skill across the whole city.

The council takes a leading role in supporting residents into employment and training and you will be expected to offer a new dimension to our work on skills.

Educational standards for primary and secondary students of all ages in York have continued to rise and we are looking for an inspirational and energetic leader to join our talented team and continue to create the best possible opportunities for young people.

Partnership working and collaboration really matter in York. Our achievements are built upon a longstanding and strong partnership between Schools,Parents, Council, Health Services, Voluntary Sector and Police.

Their starting place is with our families, children and young people, ensuring they have the early help, education, care and skills which allow each one to flourish, be employable and contribute positively to their communities.

This partnership approach is critical to our work on safeguarding and child protection. We are never complacent in York and are looking for someone who will ensure that the most vulnerable members of our community are protected through the constant improvement of safeguarding systems.

York is an ambitious council and the successful candidate will join a senior management team that is putting in place the building blocks for continued success across a range of priorities.

So whether you are a current DCS, aspiring Deputy/Assistant Director or operating at a senior level in a relevant post and if you have a strong track record, plenty of ambition and want to join a city striving to be as fair and successful as it can be, get in touch.

Let's talk about how we can help you realise your vision for children's services.

Further information is available on www.york.gov.uk/dcsrecruitment or alternatively call our retained consultants at Penna - Maggie Hennessy on 07877 004648 or Rebecca Jones on 020 7332 7870.

For an informal discussion with our Chief Executive, Kersten England, please contact her office on 01904 552000.

Closing Date: Friday 22 November 2013.