At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the commissioning of placements for children and young people, ensuring quality and efficiency.
- Company: Achieving for Children, dedicated to improving outcomes for children and families.
- Benefits: Fixed-term role until June 2028 with potential for extension and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment focused on collaboration and positive outcomes.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children and young people while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Degree level education or substantial experience in commissioning and relationship management.
The predicted salary is between 29700 - 36300 £ per year.
Placement Commissioning is a fast-paced team within the Early Help and Social Care directorate with a remit to drivethe commissioning framework and its strategic intentions to support the delivery of positive outcomes for children andyoung people.
The service leads the commissioning and contract management of placements for children and youngpeople in the care of the Local Authority and for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
The team works closely with social care and education operational managers to identify needs, co-design solutions, procure placements and deliver quality assurance through robust contract management.
Roleswithin this service require a level of professional skill and technical knowledge to collaborate effectively with internaland external stakeholders, ensuring high quality results and the effective delivery of services.
Achieving for Children continually reviews its structure and business practices in order to provide the best possibleservices for children, young people and their families, in the most effective and efficient way.
As a result, the key tasks inany job profile may be varied.
This position is offered on a fixed-term basis through June 2028, with the potential for extension subject to future requirements.
You will contribute to the delivery of operational and strategic commissioning intentions identified as part of the commissioning service.
Operating as a Placement Commissioning Officer, your role focuses on operational case management, supporting the delivery of delegated commissioning activities, and assisting senior leads.
Working closely with Placement Commissioning Team Leader you will be responsible for delegated tasks relating to fee uplifts and negotiations, contract monitoring, provider relationship development, policy/planning activities and quality assurance.
Your core responsibilities will include
- Leading external placement commissioning for Children in Care, Care Leavers and/or children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities across residential homes, Independent Fostering Agencies, supported accommodation, residential and day special schools and Alternative Provisions.
- Carrying out due diligence, quality assurance and provider monitoring visits
- Managing contract administration, provider negotiations, and cost-avoidance monitoring for placements
Through effective contract monitoring and provider engagement, you will assist in delivering jointly commissioned services across education, health, and social care to ensure value for money and efficient use of resources.
You will support the Placement Commissioning Team Leader in developing and implementing action plans to deliver agreed strategies and key priorities.
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Lorraine Parker-James via email: lorraine. parker-james@achievingforchildren. org. uk
- Educated to a degree level or with substantial professional experience
- Experience of building strong partnerships, maintaining relationships and co-producing solutions to challenges across a diverse set of stakeholders, including children, young people and their families.
Advocating the voices of those we are working with.
- Experience in fee negotiations, fee uplifts, commissioning placements and relationship building with stakeholders.
- Experience in quality assurance, contract management and developing innovative contracting approaches.
- Proven ability to effectively use qualitative and quantitative data, intelligence and evidence to create meaningful insight and to inform own decision making.
- Knowledge of statutory legislation and guidance (e. g. the Children Act; SEND Code of Practice) and national policy drivers that affect children’s services.
- Knowledge of delivering commissioned services within budget, monitoring financial performance, identifying financial risks/pressures, and meeting identified savings targets.
- Maintaining accurate records, producing clear reports and presentations for stakeholders in line with local policies.
- Hold a driving licence and have use of a vehicle to travel effectively to undertake work
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Placements Commissioning Officer in Maidenhead employer: Achieving for Children
Achieving for Children is an exceptional employer that prioritises a supportive and collaborative work culture, making it an ideal place for those passionate about community service. With a focus on employee growth, you will have access to professional development opportunities while working in the vibrant areas of Kingston and Richmond, where your contributions directly impact families and front-line staff. Enjoy a fulfilling role that combines hands-on management with the chance to create safe and welcoming environments for all.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Placements Commissioning Officer in Maidenhead
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
Dive into your local council meetings or community boards. These spaces are packed with people who are already in the public sector and might have insider tips on upcoming temporary roles. Plus, you can connect directly with key decision-makers.
✨Stay Alert for Seasonal Recruitment
Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
✨Tap Into Your University Resources
If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Placements Commissioning Officer in Maidenhead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Achieving for Children
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Achieving for Children.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Achieving for Children that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
