At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead partnerships and business development to expand services in health and social care.
- Company: Values-driven specialist care provider focused on mental health and learning disabilities.
- Benefits: Opportunity to influence strategy, drive growth, and make a real difference.
- Other info: Hybrid role with travel across the region; equal opportunities employer.
- Why this job: Join a supportive leadership team and impact lives through meaningful partnerships.
- Qualifications: Experience in business development and strong relationship-building skills required.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Head of Partnerships to join a growing, values-driven specialist care provider supporting adults with mental health needs, learning disabilities, and autism. This senior leadership role is ideal for someone who thrives on building strategic relationships, driving sustainable growth, and making a meaningful impact within health and social care.
Working closely with the Executive Leadership Team, you will lead the organisation's partnerships and business development strategy, helping to expand services, secure new opportunities, and strengthen relationships with key commissioners and stakeholders.
The Opportunity
- Developing and implementing strategic partnership and growth plans.
- Building strong relationships with Local Authorities, NHS organisations, Integrated Care Boards (ICBs), commissioners and other key partners.
- Identifying new business opportunities and increasing referral pathways.
- Leading high-quality bid and tender submissions.
- Supporting service expansion into new geographical areas.
- Working collaboratively with operational teams to mobilise new contracts and services.
- Monitoring market trends, commissioning priorities and competitor activity to identify opportunities for growth.
About You
We’re looking for a commercially minded professional who can demonstrate:
- Significant experience in business development, partnerships or commissioning within health and social care.
- A proven track record of securing new business and developing strategic partnerships.
- Experience leading successful tender and bid submissions.
- Strong knowledge of adult social care commissioning.
- Excellent communication, presentation and negotiation skills.
- The ability to influence senior stakeholders and build long-term relationships.
- Strong commercial awareness with a strategic mindset.
- A full UK driving licence and willingness to travel.
Desirable Experience
- Mental health, learning disability or autism services.
- Supported living, residential care or community support.
- Service mobilisation and contract implementation.
- Knowledge of procurement frameworks and commissioning processes.
What’s on Offer?
This is a fantastic opportunity to join an ambitious organisation that is investing in growth while remaining committed to delivering exceptional, person-centred care.
You’ll have the opportunity to:
- Influence organisational strategy.
- Build meaningful partnerships across the health and social care sector.
- Drive service growth and innovation.
- Work as part of a supportive senior leadership team.
- Make a genuine difference to the lives of people who rely on specialist support services.
If you’re an experienced business development or partnerships professional looking for your next leadership challenge within health and social care, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today for a confidential conversation.
Head of Partnerships in Blackburn employer: Search
Join a values-driven specialist care provider in Blackburn, Lancashire, where you can make a meaningful impact on the lives of adults with mental health needs, learning disabilities, and autism. As Head of Partnerships, you'll thrive in a supportive work culture that prioritises personal development and innovation, while enjoying the unique opportunity to influence organisational strategy and build strong relationships across the health and social care sector. With a commitment to exceptional, person-centred care, this organisation offers a rewarding environment for those looking to drive sustainable growth and service expansion.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Partnerships in Blackburn
✨Get Involved with Local Health Initiatives
Join local community health events or volunteer for organisations like public health agencies. This not only builds your experience but also helps you network with industry professionals who might know of openings at places like Search.
✨Tap into Professional Associations
Check out associations like the Institute of Healthcare Management. They often have job boards, networking events, and conferences that are perfect for connecting with potential employers in health sciences administration.
✨Stay Updated with Industry Trends
Follow health policy news and trends—being knowledgeable about the current landscape will not only help you in interviews but also make you stand out as a candidate. You can discuss recent developments and their implications when chatting with folks at Search.
✨Apply Through Our Website for Better Visibility
When you find roles that excite you, especially at places like Search, don’t forget to apply through our website. This can sometimes give you an edge by showing the employer you’re savvy and committed to finding the right fit.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Partnerships in Blackburn
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in health sciences administration, it's super important to spotlight any relevant experience you have in healthcare settings. Whether you've worked in a hospital, a clinic, or any related environment, make sure to detail those roles in your CV – focusing on your responsibilities and achievements that align with the job at Search.
Showcase Your Administrative Skills:Administrative skills are key in this field, so don’t hold back! Make sure your CV reflects your proficiency in things like scheduling, data management, and compliance with health regulations. Mention specific software you’ve used, such as patient management systems, as this will demonstrate your hands-on abilities and readiness for the role at Search.
Craft a Meaningful Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the health sciences field and your eagerness to contribute to Search. Share a bit about why you’re drawn to this sector, any impactful situations or challenges you’ve encountered, and how they’ve shaped your desire to work in health sciences administration. This personal touch can really set you apart!
Tailor Your Documents to the Job:Don't use a one-size-fits-all approach! Make sure your CV and cover letter are specifically tailored for this role. Highlight any certifications you have relevant to health administration, and ensure you clearly connect your previous roles to the skills needed for the full-time position at Search. This way, you're showing them you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in being a part of their team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Search
✨Showcase Your Administrative Skills
In health sciences administration, being organised is key. Make sure you can demonstrate your skills in managing schedules, paperwork, and data accurately. Be ready to discuss specific tools you've used, like electronic health record systems or scheduling software, and how they improved efficiency in your past experiences.
✨Know Your Regulations
Familiarity with healthcare regulations and compliance is crucial. Brush up on HIPAA, GDPR, or other relevant policies before your interview. We recommend preparing examples of how you've ensured compliance or handled sensitive information in past roles—this will show you're not just knowledgeable but also responsible.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Interviews for administrative roles often involve scenario-based questions to assess your problem-solving skills. Practice responses to common situations you might face, such as dealing with a challenging patient or managing a sudden schedule change. This will not only demonstrate your ability to think on your feet but also highlight your interpersonal skills.
✨Align Your Goals with the Organisation
As a full-time candidate, employers will want to know how your long-term career goals align with their mission. Take some time to research Search’s values and be ready to tie your passion for health sciences administration into their objectives. Demonstrating enthusiasm and career alignment can be a game-changer in this competitive field!
