At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic commissioning and improve services for children and young people in Croydon.
- Company: Join Croydon Council, dedicated to community and children's welfare.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, inclusive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to positive change and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of children while shaping innovative service solutions.
- Qualifications: Experience in children's services, contract management, and strong negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
The purpose of this role is to deliver a Lead Commissioner service within the Children, Families and Education department, with potential responsibility such as education, Children with Disabilities, Early Help, social care and SEND as required. It involves improving the strategic commissioning, procurement and contract management practice to deliver good service outcomes for children and young people and sustainable efficiencies. The role requires identifying and delivering robust and innovative commissioning plans for the category, understanding the wider strategic vision and plans for Croydon, and working alongside procurement colleagues and service teams (SEND, social care, education, etc.) to design and deliver innovative commissioning solutions. Strategic contract management support is provided, ensuring effective contract compliance for the portfolio, with forward planning of all strategic (£100k+) commissioning and contracting with the relevant service teams.
Key Responsibilities
- Improve the strategic commissioning, procurement and contract management practice.
- Identify and deliver robust and innovative commissioning plans for the category.
- Work alongside procurement colleagues and service teams to design and deliver innovative commissioning solutions.
- Provide strategic contract management support and ensure effective contract compliance for the portfolio.
- Engage in forward planning of all strategic (£100k+) commissioning and contracting with the relevant service teams.
Qualifications & Experience
- Knowledge of policy and legislation relevant to Children's services, including education, SEND, children's social care.
- Knowledge of the children's services market and contracting models within the sector.
- Knowledge of EU procurement regulations and best practice related to public procurement.
- Understanding of key elements of the commissioning and procurement cycle.
- Evidence of ability to build and manage effective and resilient relationships and partnerships inside and outside of the organisation.
- Excellent negotiation skills with evidence of their effective use and application to achieve objectives.
- Senior level experience of commissioning ideally within children's services.
- Experience of managing complex contracts to deliver service improvements and ensure value for money.
- Experience of strategy development and service redesign through all stages of the project lifecycle (development of needs analysis, vision, business case, options development and implementation, performance monitoring).
- Experience of engaging with services to drive and manage change and deliver the strategic priorities of an organisation / partnership.
- Experience of line management.
Croydon Council's Priorities
- The Council balances its books, listens to residents, and delivers good sustainable services.
- Get a grip on the finances and make the council financially sustainable.
- Become a council which listens to, respects and works in partnership with Croydon's diverse communities and businesses.
- Strengthen collaboration and joint working with partner organisations and the voluntary, community and faith sectors.
- Ensure good governance is embedded and adopt best practice.
- Develop our workforce to deliver in a manner that respects the diversity of our communities.
Key Business Plan Outcomes
- Croydon is a place of opportunity for business, earning and learning.
- Children and young people in Croydon have the chance to thrive, learn and fulfil their potential.
- Croydon is a cleaner, safer and healthier place, a borough we’re proud to call home.
- People can lead healthier and independent lives for longer.
Equal Opportunities Statement
Croydon Council is an inclusive employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. Subject to business needs, we will be pleased to consider applications from candidates seeking flexible working arrangements and support hybrid working, whereby staff attend the workplace for part of their working week and work from home, or elsewhere, remotely for the rest of the time. As users of the disability confident scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the advertised role. Croydon council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all staff to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to a DBS check, if the role requires one.
Lead Commissioner employer: Croydon Council
Croydon Council is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment where you can make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and families in the community. With a strong commitment to employee development, flexible working arrangements, and a culture that values diversity and collaboration, you will have the opportunity to grow professionally while contributing to innovative commissioning solutions. Join us in our mission to create a thriving, inclusive borough where every child has the chance to succeed.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Commissioner
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Croydon Council, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Croydon Council and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Commissioner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Croydon Council and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Croydon Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Croydon Council, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Croydon Council.
