Service Director - Commissioning
Cambridge
£600-£750/day

A Local Authority is seeking a dynamic and strategic leader for the position of Service Director - Commissioning. This pivotal role involves overseeing the commissioning of social care services for adults and children, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, cost-effective, and safe services that meet the diverse needs of our community.

Key Responsibilities:

* Strategic Planning and Development:

o Develop and implement comprehensive commissioning strategies in alignment with the council's strategic objectives.
o Utilise data and insights to identify service gaps and plan effectively.
o Engage with providers and system partners to understand needs and priorities, ensuring they are reflected in commissioning plans.

* Service Design and Procurement:

o Design service models that deliver high-quality outcomes.
o Lead the procurement process, including drafting specifications, tendering, and contract negotiations.
o Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, policies, and best practices in procurement.

* Performance Management and Quality Assurance:

o Monitor and evaluate the performance of commissioned services against agreed outcomes and KPIs.

* Financial Management:

o Develop and manage budgets for commissioned services, ensuring cost-effectiveness and value for money.
o Analyse financial data to monitor spending and adjust plans as necessary.

* Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration:

o Build and maintain effective relationships with service providers, partners, and other stakeholders.
o Facilitate multi-agency collaboration to enhance service delivery and integration.
o Communicate commissioning plans and outcomes to stakeholders and the wider community.

* Team Leadership and Management:

o Lead and manage the commissioning team, providing direction, support, and development opportunities.
o Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous learning within the team.
o Set clear objectives and performance standards for team members.

Qualifications and Experience:

* Education:

o Qualified to a post-degree level.

* Knowledge:

o Thorough understanding of commissioning processes and relevant legislation.
o Strong commercial and financial understanding of market management and development.
o In-depth knowledge of the health system and independent provider requirements.

* Skills:

o Exceptional leadership and communication skills.
o Strong financial and budgetary management capabilities.
o Excellent negotiation and analytical skills.

* Experience:

o Extensive experience in senior management roles involving the commissioning of people services.
o Proven track record in market management and development.
o Significant experience in budget management and financial planning.
o Demonstrated ability to lead strategic policy formulation and problem-solving in complex environments.