At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead mental health transformation projects across six local authorities and improve services for young adults.
- Company: Join the South London Partnership and make a real difference in mental health services.
- Benefits: Competitive hourly rate, hybrid working, and potential for contract extension.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence mental health services at a system level with senior leaders.
- Why this job: Shape innovative mental health solutions and collaborate with key stakeholders to drive change.
- Qualifications: Experience in commissioning, transformation, and strong understanding of mental health services required.
Location: Twickenham - Hybrid working 1-2 days a month in office
Hourly rate £31.18 - £33.78 PAYE / £40.81 - £44.27 UMB Per Hour
Contract Length: 6-month contract (possibility of extension)
Working Pattern: Full Time, Monday - Friday, 36 hours
ASAP Start
Lead Mental Health Transformation Across Six Local Authorities
The South London Partnership (SLP) is seeking an experienced Senior Mental Health Project Lead to drive ambitious mental health transformation programmes across six South West London boroughs. This is an exceptional opportunity for a senior commissioning, transformation or programme professional with a strong background in Local Authority services, mental health commissioning, and partnership working across health and social care systems.
Working with Local Authorities, the NHS, South West London Integrated Care Board (ICB), mental health providers and wider stakeholders, you will lead collaborative projects that improve outcomes for residents with complex mental health needs.
The Opportunity
You will take a leading role in shaping and delivering a programme of cross-borough mental health initiatives, with a particular focus on:
- Developing joint commissioning approaches across Local Authorities
- Market development and provider engagement
- Improving services for young adults aged 18-25 with complex mental health needs
- Mental health service transformation and redesign
- Strengthening collaboration between Local Authorities, NHS partners and providers
- Using data and intelligence to inform commissioning decisions and future service models
What You'll Be Doing
- Leading complex mental health transformation projects across multiple Local Authorities
- Working closely with commissioning leads, NHS Mental Health Trusts, ICB colleagues and providers
- Developing joint commissioning strategies and market management approaches
- Conducting needs analysis, demand analysis and market assessments
- Engaging providers to support service innovation and capability development
- Producing high-quality reports, business cases and strategic recommendations
- Driving stakeholder engagement across health, social care and voluntary sector partners
- Monitoring programme delivery, outcomes and performance measures
- Supporting the implementation of key mental health commissioning priorities across South West London
About You
We are particularly interested in candidates who can demonstrate:
Essential Experience
- Significant experience working within or alongside Local Authorities
- Proven experience leading commissioning, transformation or service redesign programmes
- Strong understanding of mental health commissioning and delivery
- Experience managing complex projects across multiple organisations and stakeholders
- Experience working collaboratively with Local Authorities, NHS organisations, Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) and voluntary sector partners
- Track record of delivering programmes that improve outcomes for service users
- Strong programme management, governance and stakeholder management skills
Highly Desirable
- Experience commissioning mental health services within a Local Authority and/or NHS setting
- Knowledge of provider market development and market shaping
- Experience supporting integrated commissioning arrangements across health and social care systems
- Understanding of Section 117 responsibilities and community mental health pathways
Why Apply?
This role offers the chance to influence mental health services across six Local Authorities, working at system level with senior leaders across local government and the NHS. You'll play a key role in developing innovative commissioning solutions and delivering meaningful improvements for residents with complex mental health needs.
If you have a strong Local Authority background and experience leading commissioning or transformation programmes within mental health, social care or integrated care systems, we'd love to hear from you.
Senior Project Lead - Commissioning employer: Adecco
The South London Partnership (SLP) is an exceptional employer that prioritises mental health transformation and community well-being. With a collaborative work culture and a focus on professional growth, employees are empowered to lead impactful projects across multiple Local Authorities, enhancing services for residents with complex mental health needs. The hybrid working model allows for flexibility while fostering strong partnerships with NHS and local government stakeholders, making it a rewarding environment for those passionate about making a difference in mental health services.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Project Lead - Commissioning
✨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 Senior Project Lead - Commissioning
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 Adecco
✨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 Adecco.
✨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 Adecco 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.
