Principal Officer

Bournville, United Kingdom | Posted on 24/06/2026

At Civic Recruitment and Limited, we know that individuals are more than just fixed expenses; they are the cornerstone of every thriving organisation. That’s why we are passionate about transforming recruitment in the public and private sectors.
In the modern job market, organisations in both public and private sectors face significant workforce challenges. Public sector entities, such as local councils and central government departments, often struggle with lengthy recruitment processes, limited access to qualified candidates, and stringent budgetary and regulatory constraints.

Private sector businesses, on the other hand, encounter high turnover rates, difficulties managing a mix of permanent and temporary staff, and challenges in sourcing specialised talent for niche industries. These sector-specific obstacles, coupled with the universal complexities of payroll management, create a pressing need for efficient workforce solutions.
Civic Recruitment Limited addresses these challenges with innovative recruitment and payroll solutions tailored for diverse organisational needs. Recognising the critical hurdles organisations face, the company leverages its expertise to streamline processes, reduce recruitment times, and alleviate administrative burdens.

With an extensive database of over 1 million pre-screened candidates, Civic Recruitment Limited is well-positioned to cater to the specific needs of both public and private sectors.

Job Description

4 Month Contract with A Local Authority

Job Purpose

The Principal Officer (Child Protection Chair) is responsible for leading and chairing multi-agency Child Protection Conferences to safeguard vulnerable children and young people. The role ensures that child protection planning is effective, child-focused, and underpinned by a strengths-based, relationship-focused, and trauma-informed approach. The post holder will promote participation from children, families, and partner agencies while driving high standards of practice, performance, and decision-making to improve outcomes for children and families.

Key Responsibilities

• Chair multi-agency Child Protection Conferences and ensure effective safeguarding plans are developed and reviewed.
  
• Ensure the child’s voice, lived experience, and participation are central to all decision-making and safety planning.
  
• Facilitate collaborative working between families, social care professionals, and partner agencies to achieve positive outcomes.
  
• Apply the Strengthening Families approach to support engagement and co-production with children and parents.
  
• Monitor and evaluate the quality and effectiveness of child protection plans and interventions.
  
• Provide professional challenge where necessary to ensure statutory responsibilities and safeguarding standards are met.
  
• Support the continuous improvement of practice and performance through quality assurance, reflection, and learning.
  
• Promote and model relationship-based and trauma-informed practice across safeguarding processes.
  
• Maintain accurate records, reports, and documentation in line with statutory requirements and organizational standards.
  
• Contribute to the development of a positive learning culture, supporting professional accountability and continuous improvement.
  

Requirements

• Extensive post-qualifying social work experience.
  
• Previous experience chairing Child Protection Conferences.
  
• Sound knowledge and understanding of child protection processes and safeguarding legislation.
  
• Strong decision-making, communication, and facilitation skills.
  
• Ability to manage a demanding workload, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines.
  
• Ability to build positive working relationships with children, families, colleagues, and partner agencies.
  
• Commitment to relationship-based, strengths-focused, and trauma-informed practice.
  
• Effective team player with a collaborative and supportive approach.
  
• Management or supervisory experience.
  

Additional Information

• Location: Birmingham, United Kingdom