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- Tasks: Lead transformation in Adult Social Care and ensure smooth transitions into new councils.
- Company: Surrey County Council, committed to innovative social care solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, impactful work, and the chance to shape future services.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while leading significant change.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in Adult Social Care commissioning and transformation leadership.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on innovation and community support.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Surrey County Council is seeking an experienced Head of Commissioning (Adult Social Care) to lead a major transformation programme across Adult Social Care in preparation for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR). Reporting directly to the Executive Director of AWHP, the postholder will provide strategic leadership across commissioning and programme delivery ensuring a smooth transition into two new unitary councils. The role will act as a senior point of assurance and leadership for elected members, providers and internal stakeholders with a strong focus on market management, procurement, commissioning transformation and embedding care technology. This is a high-profile interim role requiring strong leadership, political awareness and the ability to deliver at pace in a complex and changing environment.
Key Duties/Accountabilities:
- Lead the Adult Social Care commissioning transformation programme in preparation for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR).
- Ensure continuity, stability and effective transition into two new unitary authorities.
- Implement and oversee the Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) for providers supporting people with learning disabilities, autism and mental health needs.
- Act as the single senior point of contact for providers, elected members and senior leaders building trust and confidence.
- Ensure providers are fully engaged and supported throughout the LGR process.
- Lead and support the completion and implementation of a community support tender exercise.
- Embed the care technology strategy across Adult Social Care within the new organisational structures.
- Provide professional leadership, advice and challenge to senior managers and commissioning teams.
- Maintain effective oversight of performance, risk, budgets and governance arrangements.
- Represent the Council at internal and external forums, partnerships and programme boards.
- Champion transformation, innovation and new ways of working across commissioning services.
- Respond flexibly to emerging priorities in a rapidly changing landscape.
Skills / Experience:
- Significant senior-level experience in Adult Social Care commissioning.
- Proven track record of leading large-scale transformation and change programmes within local government or similar complex environments.
- Strong programme and project management expertise.
- In-depth knowledge of commissioning, procurement, market management and tendering including Dynamic Purchasing Systems.
- Experience commissioning services for people with learning disabilities, autism and mental health needs.
- Experience embedding care technology / digital transformation within Adult Social Care.
- Highly developed stakeholder management skills including working with elected members, providers and senior leaders.
- Strong understanding of relevant legislation, statutory guidance and governance frameworks.
- Ability to lead, motivate and develop senior teams and foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
- Excellent communication, influencing and negotiation skills.
- Resilient, adaptable and outcomes-focused with the ability to operate effectively in ambiguity and change.
Additional Information:
The closing date: 20/01/2026. Enhanced DBS is required.
Head of Commissioning in England employer: CRA GROUP RECRUITMENT AND PAYROLL LTD
Contact Detail:
CRA GROUP RECRUITMENT AND PAYROLL LTD Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Commissioning in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the Adult Social Care sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the latest trends in commissioning and transformation within local government. Show that you’re not just familiar with the basics, but that you’re also up-to-date with what’s happening in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your experience in leading large-scale transformation programmes and how you can bring that expertise to the Head of Commissioning role. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Commissioning in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in Adult Social Care commissioning. We want to see how your skills align with the key duties mentioned in the job description, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: This role is all about strong leadership, so be sure to include examples of how you've led transformation programmes in the past. We love seeing real-life stories that demonstrate your ability to motivate teams and manage change.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key achievements stand out. Remember, less is often more!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at CRA GROUP RECRUITMENT AND PAYROLL LTD
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Adult Social Care commissioning and the specific challenges related to Local Government Reorganisation. Familiarise yourself with the Dynamic Purchasing System and be ready to discuss how you've successfully led transformation programmes in the past.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience, especially in complex environments. Think about times when you've motivated teams or navigated political landscapes, as this role requires strong stakeholder management and the ability to build trust with elected members and providers.
✨Be Ready for Change
This position is all about adapting to change, so come prepared to discuss how you've handled ambiguity and shifting priorities in previous roles. Share specific instances where you've championed innovation or new ways of working in commissioning services.
✨Communicate Effectively
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. This role demands excellent communication and negotiation skills, so think about how you can convey complex ideas simply. Be prepared to answer questions about how you would engage and support providers throughout the LGR process.
