Issued by: Birmingham Pathfinder CIC

Issue Date: 23^rd May 2025

Submission Deadline: 9^th June 2025

Contact for Queries: Rob McCabe, rob.mccabe@birminghamchildrenstrust.co.uk

1. Introduction

Birmingham Pathfinder is seeking to appoint a highly experienced and values-driven consultant to fulfil the responsibilities of the Deputy Director role on a consultancy basis. This is a pivotal leadership position within the organisation’s Strategic Team, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to systemic change in public services and improve outcomes for young people, families, and communities across Birmingham and beyond.

The successful consultant will bring a strong track record in strategic leadership, partnership development, fundraising, and advocacy, alongside a deep commitment to social justice and collaborative working. This Invitation to Tender (ITT) outlines the background, scope, expectations, and submission requirements for this consultancy opportunity.

2. Organisational Background

Birmingham Pathfinder is a cross-sector initiative committed to transforming the way public services respond to individuals and communities who have experienced multiple social harms. Our work is grounded in values of nurture, shared authority and commitment to social justice. We aim to challenge entrenched practices, advocate for policy reform, and promote innovative, evidence-based approaches that centre the voices and experiences of those most affected by social injustice.

The Pathfinder operates as a Community Interest Company (CIC), governed by a Board of Directors and supported by a Strategic Team responsible for setting direction, managing partnerships, and ensuring the sustainability and impact of the initiative.

3. Purpose of the Consultancy

The consultant will act in the capacity of Deputy Director, working closely with the Director and Strategic Team to ensure the effective delivery of the Pathfinder’s mission. This includes:

– Shaping and implementing strategic priorities.
– Leading on partnership development and stakeholder engagement.
– Driving fundraising and resource mobilisation efforts.
– Supporting governance and compliance as Company Secretary.
– Advocating for systemic change through public speaking, policy engagement, and communications.
– Contributing to operational management, team development, and financial oversight.

This consultancy is ideal for a senior leader with a passion for social justice, a collaborative mindset, and the ability to operate effectively across sectors and systems.

4. Scope of Work

The consultant will be expected to undertake the following key responsibilities:

4.1 Strategic Leadership

– Collaborate with the Strategic Team and CIC Directors to develop and refine the Pathfinder’s strategic direction.
– Act as a key adviser to the Director, providing insights and recommendations on emerging opportunities and challenges.
– Ensure that the Pathfinder’s mission, values, and long-term sustainability are embedded in all strategic decisions.

4.2 Partnership Development

– Identify, cultivate, and manage relationships with key stakeholders, including funders, third sector organisations, public agencies, and community leaders.
– Represent the Pathfinder at external meetings, conferences, and events to build visibility and influence.
– Foster cross-sector collaboration to support the spread and adoption of the Pathfinder approach.

4.3 Fundraising and Resource Mobilisation

– Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy aligned with the Pathfinder’s strategic priorities.
– Prepare and submit high-quality grant applications to trusts, foundations, and statutory funders.

– Cultivate relationships with potential donors and sponsors, providing regular updates on the Pathfinder’s impact and achievements.

4.4 Governance and Compliance

– Serve as Company Secretary to the Pathfinder CIC, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
– Support the effective functioning of the CIC Board, including preparation of board papers, minutes, and statutory filings.
– Promote good governance and transparency across all aspects of the organisation’s operations.

4.5 Advocacy and Communications

– Contribute to the development and execution of communication strategies to raise awareness of the Pathfinder’s work.
– Represent the organisation in public forums, media engagements, and policy discussions.
– Advocate for policy change and the adoption of values-driven, evidence-based approaches in public services.

4.6 Team Leadership and Development

– Support the development and wellbeing of the Pathfinder team, including mentoring and coaching staff.
– Promote inclusive and non-hierarchical approaches to leadership and decision-making.
– Contribute to succession planning and the long-term sustainability of the Pathfinder’s work.

4.7 Financial and Operational Management

– Share responsibility for budget oversight and financial planning, ensuring transparency and accountability.
– Monitor financial performance and support the preparation of financial reports.
– Identify and address operational challenges to ensure the effective delivery of programmes and services.

4.8 Research and Evaluation

– Support research and evaluation activities to build a robust evidence base for the Pathfinder’s impact.
– Use data and learning to inform strategic decisions and improve practice.
– Share insights and findings with stakeholders to influence wider systems change.

5. Consultant Profile

The ideal consultant will demonstrate the following qualifications, skills, and experience:

Essential

– Proven experience in cross-sector leadership, including financial and operational management.
– Strong understanding of social justice issues, particularly those affecting individuals and communities who have experienced multiple social harms.
– Demonstrable leadership skills in managing teams and achieving organisational goals.
– Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with diverse stakeholders.
– Public speaking experience and the ability to represent the organisation with credibility and influence.
– Strategic thinking and planning capabilities.
– Proven track record in fundraising and resource mobilisation.
– Knowledge of systems change methodologies and policy/advocacy work.
– Understanding of policy and practice in children and families, education, and social care.
– Experience of working with or as part of third sector boards and knowledge of good governance.
– Highly collaborative and committed to team-based working.
– Personal alignment with the Pathfinder’s values and mission.

Desirable

– Experience in a similar consultancy or interim leadership role.
– Familiarity with the Birmingham or West Midlands context.
– Experience in supporting organisational development and change management.

6. Duration and Budget

– Duration: 24 months, with potential for extension.
– Estimated Days: 460 days

– Location: Hybrid – office and home-based (to be agreed).
– Budget: Day rate £300-£350

The consultant will be engaged on a freelance basis and will be responsible for their own tax, insurance, and other statutory obligations.

7. Submission Requirements

Interested consultants are invited to submit a proposal that includes the following:

1. Cover Letter (max 2 pages) outlining:
   – Your interest in the role.
   – Relevant experience and expertise.  – Your approach to fulfilling the responsibilities outlined in the ITT.

2. CV or Organisational Profile detailing relevant qualifications and experience.
3. Examples of Relevant Work or case studies demonstrating your impact in similar roles.
4. Proposed Daily Rate and availability over the contract period.
5. References from two recent clients or employers.

All submissions should be sent in PDF format to rob.mccabe@birminghamchildrenstrust.co.uk  by 12pm on Monday 9^th June 2025 with the subject line: Tender Submission – Deputy Director Consultant.

8. Evaluation Criteria

Tenders will be assessed based on the following criteria:

Shortlisted candidates may be invited to an interview or presentation as part of the selection process.

9. Timeline

10. Contact Information

For any queries regarding this ITT or the Deputy Director consultancy opportunity, please contact:

Rob McCabe

Email: rob.mccabe@birminghamchildrenstrust.co.uk
Phone: 07954169503