John Pearce on Leadership in Children’s Services: Navigating Change and Shaping Systems

In this episode of View from the Hill, we speak with John Pearce, experienced Director of Children’s Services, about leadership during a period of significant change across children’s services.John reflects on the evolving landscape of children’s services, the complex decisions leaders are required to make, and the responsibility that comes with shaping outcomes for children, families, and communities. He shares insights from his own leadership journey, exploring how thoughtful, values-driven leadership can influence not only individual organisations, but wider systems.We explore the realities of leading through change, the opportunities for leaders to shape thinking beyond their immediate roles, and what it takes to create meaningful, lasting impact across services.An honest and reflective conversation for public sector leaders and aspiring leaders navigating complexity, responsibility, and change in practice.