Commissioning and Commercial Planning Manager

About the Role

We are looking for an experienced and collaborative Commissioning and Commercial Planning Manager to join our Information and Digital Governance service on a fixed term basis for two years.

This is a key leadership role where you will drive commercial planning, procurement assurance and contract governance across Digital and Customer Services, ensuring our services deliver high‑quality, compliant and value‑for‑money outcomes for residents. You will play a central role in shaping how we manage supplier relationships, track performance and plan ahead, bringing structure, insight and strong governance to a complex and fast‑moving digital environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Influence how digital services are commissioned and managed across the council.
• Work with senior stakeholders across procurement, finance, legal and service areas.
• Lead improvements in contract performance, governance and accountability.
• Contribute to social value and net zero commitments through our supplier ecosystem.
• Lead and provide assurance on procurement routes, contract renewals and governance processes.
• Maintain a clear forward plan of procurement and contract activity, identifying risks and key decision points.
• Own and develop a robust contract register and ensure accurate, auditable records.
• Work closely with procurement, finance and contract owners to ensure effective commercial delivery and compliance.
• Monitor supplier performance, KPIs, social value and contract outcomes.
• Support and embed consistent contract review frameworks and governance standards.
• Provide expert advice to services on route‑to‑market, approvals and compliance.
• Lead a small team and support their development and delivery.

Benefits

• Up to 31 days leave per year, increasing to 36 days after five years of local government service.
• A range of flexible working arrangements to maintain a healthy work‑life balance, as well as a 35‑hour working week.
• Learning and development opportunities to maximise your potential.
• Competitive pay and commitment to paying all staff the London Living Wage at minimum.
• Excellent local government pension scheme.
• Cycle to Work scheme and discounted gym memberships.
• Local discounts from restaurants, shops, health and beauty therapists, and more.

Equal Opportunities

We are dedicated to creating an inclusive and equitable workforce, where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Our workforce strategy places equality, equity, diversity and inclusion at the heart of everything we do, reaffirming our commitment to fostering a culture of inclusion. We maintain a zero‑tolerance approach to unlawful discrimination, harassment or victimisation on the grounds of any protected characteristics under the 2010 Equality Act, and any incidents will be promptly investigated and addressed in line with our HR policies.

Pre‑Employment Checks

• Proof of address
• Evidence of any name changes (if applicable)
• Right to work in the UK
• Overseas criminal record check (if applicable)
• Satisfactory references
• Occupational Health clearance
• Evidence of professional qualifications or registrations
• DBS check at the appropriate level (if applicable)

Safeguarding

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Some posts are subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) and the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Disability Confident Scheme

Islington Council operates a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria and we are committed to providing support to applicants who request reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process and throughout their career with us.