Organisational Overview

The Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) protects people in England and Wales who may not have the mental capacity to make certain decisions for themselves, such as about their health and finance. We are an Executive Agency of the Ministry of Justice (MoJ), set up in 2007 following the introduction of the Mental Capacity Act of 2005.

OPG is responsible for registering lasting powers of attorney (LPA) and enduring powers of attorney (EPA) and supervising deputies who are appointed by the Court of Protection.

OPG is a fantastic place to work offering a range of development opportunities. The OPG is a disability confident employer and is committed to developing a supportive and inclusive environment that reflects the diverse community we serve.

OPG is currently delivering an ambitious transformation programme. This will change the way we provide services and help us meet the growing needs of our users, partners and our stakeholders. It will make sure our users experience a better level of support and will help us to respond to the changing needs of society. Transformation will ensure we can better support adults at risk and create high-quality services that are accessible and affordable.

OPG is aiming to have a Digital Power of Attorney in place that meets our customer and stakeholder needs. We aim to have a multiskilled, flexible workforce, working within office/home-based locations to meet civil service environment.

Our Birmingham office is located centrally within walking distance to Birmingham New Street, Moor Street and Snow Hill train stations as well as the Mailbox and Broad Street. Our Nottingham office is located at Embankment House outside of the city centre.

We are looking for someone who will take responsibility for managing operational performance, people development and efficiency across a business area within Power of Attorney Services (PoAS). Through collaborative working across OPG, MoJ and with suppliers, you will develop and deliver quality services that meet customer needs and makes best use of digital channels, products, and services. You will lead, develop and coach high performing and engaged managers and staff who are motivated and have the capabilities to provide excellent customer service. You will help grow a diverse and inclusive workforce and lead on key people management initiatives to support the recruitment, retention, and development of managers at all levels and front-line staff.

The successful candidate will be expected to work from their base office location on a weekly basis in line with current Civil Service requirements, outside of any reasonable adjustments.

One position is based in Nottingham, while two are located in Birmingham. Occasional travel to the site where you are not primarily based may be required.

Job description, Duties and Responsibilities -

• Leading and managing staff and managers to deliver performance targets, setting priorities, and providing direction and support.

• Direct line management of HEO Unit managers across several functions, including developing and coaching them in a continuous improvement environment to deliver outstanding customer service and operational excellence.

• Supporting and contributing to the aims and performance of PoAS to meet Business Plan delivery targets.

• Leading the development of the staff engagement plan and ensuring visibility as a leader.

• Ensuring managers and staff have comprehensive learning and development (L&D) plans and developing effective talent management within teams.

• Role modelling leadership skills and values as set out in the Leadership Statement, with a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion.

• Collaborating across OPG and with internal stakeholders to ensure high-quality service and aligned delivery of priorities.

• Managing and delivering organisational change through a continuous improvement approach, including leading teams through change with clear, open communication.

• Accountable for delivering specific projects aimed at improving service quality and timeliness to customers.

• Participating in PoAS and Operations Directorate Senior Leadership Team (SLT) to deliver organisational priorities.

• Contributing to workforce planning, including profiling, forecasting, and general resource plans.

• Overseeing HR matters such as performance, attendance, and conduct in line with MOJ policy, while promoting reward and recognition.

• Promoting and implementing equality, diversity, and inclusion, and supporting staff networks and diversity groups.

• Ensuring clear, transparent communication and involving relevant people, including frontline staff, in decision-making where appropriate.

• Undertaking ad hoc projects as required, in line with the post’s skill set.

Application process

This recruitment will follow the Civil Service Success Profile process. Candidates will be expected to provide a Personal Statement of Suitability of no more than 1000 words in support of your application based on essential skills.

Interview Process

If you are successful at sift, you will be invited to an interview which will use the Civil Service Success Profiles. At interview, candidates should expect questions on:

• Strengths relevant to the role

• The following Behaviours at Level 3:

  • Leadership (Lead Behaviour)

  • Communicating and Influencing

  • Changing and Improving

  • Managing a quality service

All interviews will be held remotely via MS Teams.

Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview.

Reasonable Adjustments

At OPG we consider all applications on the basis of merit and want you to feel able to demonstrate your full potential whatever type of assessment is used. If you require any reasonable adjustments for any aspect of the selection process, do not hesitate to get in contact with us.

As a Disability Confident organisation, we will offer a guaranteed interview to candidates with a disability who meet the essential criteria for this role. If you are applying for a role within OPG and would like to be considered under the Disability Confident Scheme, please indicate this in your application and let us know of any reasonable adjustments you may require during the selection process.

For further information on benefits of working for OPG, such as our Flexible Working Policy and a FAQ, please check the candidate information pack attached to this advert.

If your application for this role is unsuccessful, we may offer you an alternative role at the same or lower grade should one be available.