At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team in delivering strategic sourcing and managing complex contracts in social care.
- Company: Join Scotland Excel, a leading public sector organisation making a difference in local communities.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid work, generous holidays, a pension scheme, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace committed to driving change and supporting vulnerable communities.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact on Scotland's public services while influencing national care policies.
- Qualifications: Business-related degree or equivalent with public sector procurement and management experience.
The predicted salary is between 66448 - 70590 £ per year.
Paisley (Hybrid)
£66,448 - £70,590 (Grade 13)
18 Month FTC (Maternity Cover)
Scotland Excel is the Centre of Procurement Expertise for local government in Scotland. Established in 2008, they are a leading public sector shared service and operate as a non-profit organisation funded by Scotland’s 32 local authorities.
Scotland Excel has a contract portfolio that supports the delivery of a wide range of essential public services provided by councils and includes contracts for children’s services and adult social care. We work closely with a wide range of key stakeholders to develop national solutions which embed national care policies and best practice and provide local commissioners with a choice of high-quality services which meet the individual needs of people who require support. The services commissioned support some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.
We are seeking a maternity cover for a critical senior manager role leading the team in the delivery of strategic sourcing activity and best practice contract management. You will be joining the Strategic Commissioning Team at an exciting time as we work with our members to determine the strategy for Scotland Excel’s future role in social care. Working within the Strategic Commissioning Team places you at the centre of this important and evolving landscape.
In this role you will provide leadership to a team of highly experienced and dedicated commissioning professionals bringing practical experience of delivering and managing complex contracts. You will support your direct report category managers by bringing knowledge, expertise and practical experience of tackling complex procurement or commissioning work.
Social care experience is preferred but not necessary as your category manager direct reports are experienced commissioners and experts in their respective category areas. You will provide procurement and commercial expertise to support them in the delivery of high value complex contracts. This will include developing and implementing sourcing strategies and building strong relationships with key stakeholders. You will support your direct reports to oversee the end‑to‑end procurement process, drive continuous improvement, manage provider performance, and ensuring best value through a robust commercial approach.
We are seeking a highly capable candidate with a business‑related degree or equivalent qualification with public sector procurement experience and significant management experience. You will have a strong commercial aptitude and be able to confidently work with complex service budget breakdown information and have experience in leading commercial negotiations.
The ideal candidate will be skilled in using Microsoft Office and procurement‑related systems, comfortable applying e‑technologies, and able to interpret financial information with confidence. We are looking for someone who can plan, organise, influence and communicate effectively, demonstrating proven leadership, sound decision‑making abilities and practical people‑management experience.
If you are an experienced individual with a strong and proven track record of delivery within a complex procurement environment and you are excited by the chance to influence nationally and drive meaningful change across Scotland’s public services, we’d love to hear from you.
When joining Scotland Excel, you will have access to a fantastic range of benefits including a hybrid and flexible approach to work which can include a nine-day fortnight, a defined benefits pension scheme, generous holiday allowance and opportunities for professional development.
To apply, please send a tailored CV and a covering letter (max. 2 pages), outlining your relevant experience and motivation for applying by Sunday 21st June.
Scotland Excel is committed to diversity and inclusion and is a Disability Confident registered employer who welcomes applications from all backgrounds. If you wish to be considered under the Disability Confident scheme please let us know when applying or by email to .
Service Manager (Social Care) in Milton employer: Scotland Excel
Scotland Excel is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the public sector while working in a supportive and collaborative environment. With a strong commitment to employee development, flexible working arrangements, and a focus on diversity and inclusion, you will thrive as part of a dedicated team that plays a crucial role in enhancing social care services across Scotland. Join us in shaping the future of public procurement and delivering high-quality support to our communities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Service Manager (Social Care) in Milton
✨Get Involved in Local Volunteering
Dive into some local volunteering opportunities! Nonprofits often look for temp workers who have a connection to the community they serve. By getting involved, you not only gain experience but also make valuable contacts in the sector.
✨Tap into Nonprofit Networks
Use platforms like Idealist or local nonprofit job boards to find temporary gigs. These spaces are buzzing with opportunities specifically tailored for social impact projects, making it easier for us to spot the ideal role at companies like Scotland Excel!
✨Attend Sector-Specific Events
Join meetings, workshops, or talks hosted by organisations in the nonprofit realm. These events are perfect for making connections and learning about temporary roles that might not be widely advertised. Plus, you can showcase your passion for social impact right there!
✨Don’t Forget Online Applications!
When you spot a temporary role at Scotland Excel that piques your interest, go ahead and apply through their website! Tailor your message to highlight how your skills align with their mission – it shows you care about the cause, which is key in this field.
We think you need these skills to ace Service Manager (Social Care) in Milton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Social Impact:In the world of nonprofits, it's all about the passion and commitment to making a difference. Make sure your cover letter speaks genuinely about why you're excited about this role at Scotland Excel. Share any experiences you've had with social impact projects or volunteering — it shows you live and breathe the cause!
Highlight Relevant Experience and Skills:For a temporary position in the nonprofit sector, focus on showcasing any specific skills or experience related to project management, community engagement, or fundraising. List any relevant work or volunteer roles on your CV, and consider including quantifiable achievements that demonstrate your impact in previous positions.
References from the Sector:Including references from previous roles in the nonprofit world can really bolster your application. If you've worked on similar social-impact projects before, ask those colleagues or supervisors if they'd be willing to vouch for your skills. This adds credibility and shows you're trusted in the sector, which can be a big plus for Scotland Excel.
Be Ready for a Quick Turnaround:Since this role is temporary, let your interest shine through in your application! Mention in your cover letter your availability to start immediately or at short notice. It shows you're keen and ready to dive right into the exciting work at Scotland Excel!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scotland Excel
✨Show Your Passion for the Cause
When interviewing for a role in the non-profit sector, especially for a temporary position, it's crucial to convey your genuine passion for social impact. Discuss why the mission of Scotland Excel resonates with you and share personal experiences that reflect your commitment to similar causes.
✨Demonstrate Your Flexibility and Adaptability
Non-profit projects often require quick pivots and resourcefulness. Be ready to share examples from your past where you've adapted to changing circumstances or tackled unexpected challenges. This will show your potential as a valuable, nimble team member for the Service Manager (Social Care) position.
✨Know Your Community Tools
Familiarise yourself with any tools or platforms that are widely used in the non-profit sector like project management software or stakeholder engagement tools. Show your readiness to hit the ground running in your temporary role by discussing any experience you have with these or similar platforms.
✨Be Prepared for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to field scenario-based questions during your interview to assess your problem-solving skills in real-world situations. Think about how you would handle challenges typical of the non-profit sector, such as engaging with diverse stakeholders or managing project timelines effectively.
