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- Tasks: Lead the transformation of services for Learning Disability and Autism in Suffolk.
- Company: Join Suffolk County Council, dedicated to improving lives through innovative social care solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hybrid working, competitive salary, and a supportive culture focused on development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in social care while shaping a forward-thinking system.
- Qualifications: Experience in commissioning and contract management, ideally in health or social care.
- Other info: This is a temporary role for 6 months with a chance to lead significant change.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Exclusive Opportunity: Head of Commissioning and Contracts - Learning Disability & Autism Suffolk | Hybrid working available Temporary for 6 months Recruiting on behalf of Suffolk County Council.
We are proud to be working in partnership with Suffolk County Council to recruit a Head of Commissioning and Contracts - a pivotal leadership role that will drive the transformation of services for people with a Learning Disability and/or Autism. This is a unique and exciting opportunity for an experienced strategic commissioner to take the lead on designing and implementing a new Tier 2 support offer as part of the council's Three Tier (Three Conversations) model.
The Role:
- Lead the strategic commissioning of a new Tier 2 model for Learning Disability and/or Autism services.
- Drive innovation in service design, aligned with strengths-based, person-centred practice.
- Understand and evaluate the impact on existing services across the care system.
- Shape and develop the local market, ensuring quality, sustainability, and value for money.
- Produce and implement a robust workplan for next-stage delivery.
- Collaborate closely with operational teams, suppliers, lived experience representatives, and NHS partners.
You will report into senior leadership and manage a team of commissioning and contract managers, taking full ownership of your portfolio area.
The Ideal Candidate:
- A strong track record in commissioning and contract management within health or social care.
- Demonstrable experience of leading transformation projects at scale, ideally involving Learning Disability and/or Autism.
- A clear understanding of the Three Conversations model and strengths-based commissioning.
- Excellent stakeholder management and the ability to navigate complex systems.
- Experience producing strategic workplans within budget and resource constraints.
- A master's degree in a relevant field or equivalent professional experience is desirable.
Why Join Suffolk County Council?
- Flexible, hybrid working environment.
- High-impact, meaningful work.
- Supportive leadership and development-focused culture.
- Opportunity to shape a forward-thinking social care system.
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
This is a rare opportunity to lead a high-profile programme that will significantly improve outcomes for people with Learning Disabilities and/or Autism across Suffolk. If you're a confident and capable strategic commissioner ready for your next challenge, we want to hear from you.
Head of Service Development and Contract employer: Schools’ Choice
Contact Detail:
Schools’ Choice Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Service Development and Contract
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Three Conversations model and strengths-based commissioning. Understanding these frameworks will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role and its objectives.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the health and social care sector, particularly those involved in commissioning and contract management. Building relationships can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals or recommendations.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of transformation projects you've led, especially those related to Learning Disabilities and Autism. Highlighting your direct experience will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Suffolk County Council's current initiatives and challenges in service development. Being well-informed about their priorities will allow you to tailor your discussions and show how you can contribute to their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Service Development and Contract
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Carefully read the job description to grasp the key responsibilities and requirements. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in commissioning and contract management, particularly within health or social care.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your track record in leading transformation projects, especially those related to Learning Disabilities and Autism. Use specific examples to demonstrate your strategic leadership skills and stakeholder management abilities.
Showcase Your Knowledge: Demonstrate your understanding of the Three Conversations model and strengths-based commissioning in your application. This will show that you are not only familiar with the framework but also capable of implementing it effectively.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a tailored cover letter that connects your skills and experiences to the role. Make sure to express your enthusiasm for the opportunity to shape a forward-thinking social care system and how you can contribute to Suffolk County Council's mission.
How to prepare for a job interview at Schools’ Choice
✨Understand the Role Thoroughly
Before the interview, make sure you have a deep understanding of the Head of Commissioning and Contracts role. Familiarise yourself with the Three Conversations model and how it applies to Learning Disability and Autism services. This will help you articulate your vision for the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your success in commissioning and contract management. Highlight any transformation projects you've led, especially those related to Learning Disabilities or Autism, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Emphasise Stakeholder Management Skills
Given the collaborative nature of this role, be ready to talk about your experience in managing stakeholders. Discuss how you've navigated complex systems and built relationships with various partners, including operational teams and NHS representatives.
✨Prepare a Strategic Workplan
Consider preparing a mock strategic workplan that reflects the objectives of the role. This could include ideas for service design and implementation within budget constraints. Presenting this during the interview can showcase your proactive approach and strategic thinking.
