At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic commissioning to improve services for children and families.
- Company: Barnsley Council, committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Flexible working, professional development, and a supportive leadership environment.
- Other info: Agile working arrangements with opportunities for career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children and young people.
- Qualifications: Experience in children's commissioning and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 51356 - 54495 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Senior Commissioning Manager to lead strategic commissioning across children’s services. This is a key leadership role responsible for developing and delivering high-quality, cost-effective services that improve outcomes for children, young people, and families. You will shape commissioning strategies, manage key provider relationships, and ensure services are evidence-based and value for money.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development and delivery of commissioning strategies across children’s services (e.g., early help, SEND, looked after children, placement sufficiency).
- Drive transformation programmes and service redesign to improve outcomes and efficiency.
- Manage complex procurement processes in line with regulatory requirements.
- Develop and maintain strong partnerships with providers, internal stakeholders, and partner agencies.
- Oversee contract management, performance monitoring, and quality assurance frameworks.
- Use data, intelligence, and outcomes-based approaches to inform commissioning decisions.
- Ensure services reflect national policy, local priorities, and best practice.
- Lead and support a team of commissioning professionals.
About You
We are looking for a strategic thinker and leader with a strong track record in children’s commissioning.
You Will Have
- Significant experience in commissioning within children’s services (local authority or similar setting).
- Strong knowledge of relevant legislation, policy, and statutory responsibilities.
- Proven ability to lead complex commissioning programmes and deliver measurable outcomes.
- Experience of procurement, contract management, and market development.
- Excellent stakeholder engagement and partnership working skills.
- Strong analytical and financial management capability.
- Leadership experience, with the ability to motivate and develop teams.
What We Offer
- Flexible and hybrid working options.
- Professional development and career progression opportunities.
- A supportive and collaborative leadership environment.
- The opportunity to make a real difference to children and families.
Senior Commissioning Manager in Barnsley employer: Barnsley Council
Barnsley Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment where you can truly make a difference in the lives of children and families. With flexible and hybrid working options, along with professional development and career progression opportunities, we are committed to fostering employee growth and inclusivity. Join us in leading strategic commissioning efforts that drive positive outcomes for our community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Commissioning Manager in Barnsley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the children's services sector. Attend relevant events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the latest trends in commissioning strategies. Be ready to discuss how you can drive transformation programmes and improve outcomes. Show them you’re not just a candidate, but a strategic thinker who’s passionate about making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You want to convey your experience in managing complex procurement processes and stakeholder engagement clearly. Role-play with a friend or use a mirror to boost your confidence before the big day.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search. Let’s get you that Senior Commissioning Manager role!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Commissioning Manager in Barnsley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in children's commissioning. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific examples of how you've led successful commissioning programmes or improved outcomes. We love seeing measurable results!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. Remember, less is often more!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly and helps us keep track of all applications efficiently.
How to prepare for a job interview at Barnsley Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of children's services and commissioning strategies. Familiarise yourself with relevant legislation and policies, as well as the specific challenges faced by Barnsley Council. This will show that you're not just interested in the role but also understand the context in which you'll be working.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Commissioning Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your leadership capabilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past, particularly in complex commissioning programmes. Highlight your ability to motivate others and drive transformation.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Stakeholder engagement is key in this role. Think about how you've built and maintained relationships with various partners in previous roles. Be ready to discuss your approach to collaboration and how you ensure that all voices are heard in the commissioning process.
✨Data-Driven Decision Making
Since the role involves using data to inform decisions, come prepared with examples of how you've used data and intelligence in your previous work. Discuss how you've applied outcomes-based approaches to improve service delivery and ensure value for money.
