Advertised from 14 April 2026

Role

Who we are

The Fostering Network is the UK’s leading fostering charity and membership organisation, dedicated to empowering, enriching and supporting the relationships at the heart of the fostering community.

Who we are looking for

We are looking for someone with extensive experience of the fostering sector to assist with leading the work in one of our four nations. You will have experience of working with local authorities, key government officials and a broad range of key stakeholders.

A strategic thinker, collaborative, with excellent leadership skills and a wide range of experience. You will be a member of a leadership team or looking to progress your career to this level. You will bring a track record of delivering excellent outcomes in the field of social work, specifically fostering and care experienced children, along with a desire to continue to develop your skillset. 

Additionally, you will have experience of managing budgets and able to demonstrate a knowledge of sound safeguarding practice.

What you’ll be doing

This is an exceptional opportunity for a high calibre professional with leadership experience to join our fantastic organisation. This post is one of four Country Directors, working with the CEO to deliver on our organisational strategic objectives.  

The post will manage and lead on key initiatives in a specific country, drive forward the monitoring, impact and evaluation of our work and ensure continuous improvement through innovative models of practice. Have responsibility for developing and maintaining key stakeholder relationships and be responsible for securing grants, fundraising and engage in activity to promote TFN and respond to the needs of the sector. A key responsibility for the post holder is to ensure that our services and products are sector leading, evidence-based and child centred.

What we can offer you

• 38 days leave (including bank holidays)
• A range of family friendly and fostering friendly leave options
• Flexible and hybrid working
• Enhanced maternity and adoption pay
• Enhanced sick pay
• 24/7 Employee Assistance Helpline
• Pension and life assurance
• Contribution to eye tests and lenses
• Season ticket loans

Our commitments to you

The Fostering Network is committed to equal opportunities and welcomes applications from all sections of the community and especially those from under-represented and minoritised backgrounds. All applications and hiring decisions will be considered on merit.

• If you identify as care experienced and meet the minimum criteria for the role, you will be guaranteed an interview under our commitment to the Care Leaver Covenant
• If you have a disability, please tell us what reasonable adjustments would support your participation in the recruitment process
• We are open to job-sharing arrangements for all roles, please indicate this in the application form if you are applying as part of a job share

Looking for more information?

For an informal conversation about the role, please contact sarah.thomas@fostering.net. You can also find more information about us on our website www.thefosteringnetwork.org.uk

Application notes

Ready to apply?

To apply please email your completed application form to recruitment@fostering.net. CVs will not be accepted.

Closing date: Wednesday 6th May 2026

Shortlisting date: Friday 8th May 2026

Stakeholder Interview: Wednesday 13th May 2026 (online via Teams)

Panel Interview date: Monday 18th May 2026  

Interview location: Our Glasgow office

We look forward to hearing from you!

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