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- Tasks: Lead strategic commissioning and partnerships in adult social care for Hertfordshire.
- Company: Hertfordshire County Council, dedicated to supporting healthy and fulfilling lives.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, impactful role, and the chance to shape community care.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with opportunities for transformation and growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while leading innovative care solutions.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in commissioning and strong partnership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 117800 ÂŁ per year.
Hertfordshire is a vibrant and varied county in the South-East of England, home to nearly 1.2 million residents. Bordering London to the north, it combines dynamic urban centres, historic market towns and attractive rural communities—making it a highly desirable place to live and an inspiring place to build a career.
Hertfordshire County Council is guided by its Corporate Plan, “Hertfordshire – On Your Side,” with a clear ambition for residents to lead healthy, independent and fulfilling lives. Adult Care Services is central to delivering this ambition, working at the heart of communities to support people throughout adulthood and to achieve the best possible outcomes.
We are now seeking an exceptional leader to take on the role of Director of Commissioning & Partnerships, a pivotal post within Adult Care Services.
About the role
As Director of Commissioning & Partnerships, you will lead a major directorate bringing together all adult social care commissioning activity and the Council’s significant strategic health and NHS partnerships. You will set the strategic direction for commissioning across Adult Care Services, oversee all contracted provision across Hertfordshire, shape and sustain provider markets, and provide senior system leadership across the Integrated Care System (ICS). You will be responsible for commissioning decisions that are evidence-based, legally compliant, financially sustainable and closely aligned with Hertfordshire’s priorities—delivering value for money across an annual care purchasing spend of approximately £500m. You will press forward with shaping approaches to ensure equity and accessibility and ensure that the voice of people who draw on care and support is at the centre. This is a highly visible and influential role, operating at the intersection of local government, health partners, elected Members and provider markets.
Key responsibilities
- Strategic commissioning and market management: Lead and develop all strategic commissioning for Adult Care Services, including older people, learning disability, mental health, homecare, residential and nursing care, community wellbeing and prevention. Ensure compliance with Care Act duties relating to market sustainability, sufficiency, and information and advice. Lead fee-setting strategies and market engagement, including senior relationships with the Hertfordshire Care Providers Association and housing partners.
- Health and system partnerships: Provide senior leadership for all NHS and Integrated Care System partnerships. Represent the Council on partnership boards, joint commissioning arrangements and regional and national forums. Lead strategy and delivery for the Better Care Fund and other joint health and care programmes.
- Commercial and financial leadership: Oversee multi-million-pound commissioning budgets, ensuring strong governance, financial sustainability and value for money. Lead commercial, procurement and contractual strategies across Adult Care Services and lead engagement with strategic budgeting and financial management. Provide assurance to Members and Corporate Leadership on spend, risks and outcomes.
- Leadership and transformation: Lead and line manage Heads of Service across Community Commissioning, Strategy & Health Integration, Community Wellbeing Commissioning and Brokerage. Drive commissioning reform and major transformation programmes. Provide visible, credible leadership across a complex, multi-agency system.
About you
You will be an experienced and credible senior leader with a strong track record in commissioning, system leadership and partnership working. You will be comfortable operating in politically sensitive environments and influencing at the highest level.
Essential criteria
- Senior-level leadership experience in commissioning, health integration or adult social care.
- Extensive experience of strategic commissioning and market management.
- Proven system leadership across local government, the NHS or similarly complex partnerships.
- Strong knowledge of Care Act commissioning responsibilities and regulatory frameworks.
- Experience of managing large, complex budgets and contractual arrangements.
- Ability to work effectively with elected Members, senior leaders and external stakeholders.
Desirable
- Relevant professional, management or postgraduate qualification.
- Experience of leading large-scale commissioning transformation or system redesign.
We welcome applications from candidates who currently reside in the UK with established proof of right to work documentation. We are not able to offer sponsorship at this time for this role. This job role is Level 18.
Interview Date: Friday 5 June 2026
Director of Commissioning & Partnerships in Stevenage employer: Hertfordshire County Council
Contact Detail:
Hertfordshire County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Commissioning & Partnerships in Stevenage
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its values. Understand their mission and how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets what they’re about.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or family to get comfortable with common questions. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll feel when it’s time to shine in front of the real interview panel.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your appreciation and keeping you top of mind. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Commissioning & Partnerships in Stevenage
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Director of Commissioning & Partnerships. We want to see how you can bring your unique skills to the table, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: This role is all about leadership, so be sure to emphasise your experience in managing teams and driving change. We’re looking for someone who can inspire and lead across complex systems, so let that shine through in your application.
Be Clear and Concise: While we love a good story, keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible and make sure your key achievements stand out. We want to quickly see why you’re the perfect fit for us!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hertfordshire County Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand the role of Director of Commissioning & Partnerships. Familiarise yourself with Hertfordshire County Council's Corporate Plan and how it aligns with adult care services. Being able to discuss specific strategies for commissioning and partnerships will show your expertise.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your senior-level leadership experience, especially in commissioning and system leadership. Think about times when you've influenced decisions at a high level or led significant transformation programmes. This is your chance to shine!
✨Understand the Financials
Since you'll be overseeing substantial budgets, brush up on your financial management skills. Be ready to discuss how you've ensured value for money in previous roles and how you would approach budget management in this position.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Demonstrate your ability to work effectively with various stakeholders, including elected Members and health partners. Prepare to talk about your experience in building relationships and how you would engage with the Hertfordshire Care Providers Association and other key players in the community.