At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the transformation of adult social care through innovative commissioning and contract management.
- Company: Join Suffolk County Council, a modern organisation dedicated to community impact and employee growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, up to 29 days leave, and a competitive pension scheme.
- Other info: Hybrid working available; travel may be required for site visits.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that values fresh ideas and promotes personalised care solutions.
- Qualifications: Experience in adult social care, commissioning, and strong relationship-building skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 85000 £ per year.
- Suffolk County Council, Endeavour House, 8 Russell Road, Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 2BX. Hybrid working 3 days/week in the office on average
- £85,289 - £102,448 per annum (pro rata for part time)
- 37 hours per week, Flexible working options available
- Permanent
About us
As a modern, flexible and effective organisation, we\'re driven to make a positive difference to the environment, the communities we serve and the careers of our people. That\'s why, when you join us, you\'ll be encouraged to share your fresh thinking and empowered to explore new ideas that will shape and improve our services as well as your career.
In Suffolk adult social care, we have recently agreed a new strategic approach looking to use innovation and technology to support independence, sustainability and high-quality care. We know we want to do more to include people who use of services, the people who support them and our front-line staff in the design of services that will be more personalised and better meet need.
We want to increasingly think system and we need people who are able to work across the health and social care system in Suffolk. We are building new approaches to integrated commissioning with the NHS integrated care board and working with our NHS provider organisations to deliver joined up care solutions. Our voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) and independent care sector providers are central to the future model of care required.
The role
Reporting to the Executive Director of Adult Social Care (DASS), you will be at the heart of this transformation, working to develop options in the market and commission services that support independence and tailored, outcome-based support.
It is envisaged that the role will change and develop as we look to adopt a more integrated commissioning approach between adult social care, children and young people services, public health, and the Integrated Care Board\'s (ICB) requirement for care and support services / prevention.
You will lead a team that manages and develops our local care providers and builds a strong culture of promoting high quality, efficient, innovative and value for money services through effective design, commissioning, and contract management. You will lead that role for Adult Social Care, and where appropriate the ICB, both in the teams you manage and in the local areas with delegated commissioning and contract management responsibilities.
About you
This exciting role calls for someone willing to embrace creative and innovative solutions, someone prepared to take risks and a leader who can enable transformation across a wide range of commissioners and most crucially independent care providers.
You will have a clear commitment to co-production and engagement and to enabling highly personalised services for people in Suffolk.
You will also have experience across adult social care, commissioning, and contract management; an in-depth understanding of the health and social care landscape and exceptional relationship-building skills will be required for success.
You can view a full list of requirements in the Job and Person Profile (Word) . If you believe you can succeed in this role, apply. Even if you don\'t meet all requirements, still apply. We would appreciate the opportunity to consider your application.
Travel and workplace requirements
We positively encourage the use of technology to communicate, but on occasions, there may be a requirement for you to travel to locations away from your contractual base, using reasonable and suitable means available to you. If you require a reasonable adjustment due to a disability to meet the travel requirements of this role, please speak with the contact detailed below.
This role supports hybrid working, with an expectation to work from the office for three days each week. Please speak with the contact detailed below if you wish to discuss how that might impact your working arrangements. #LI-Hybrid
Empowering Everyone
We\'re big believers in potential, possibility and the power of different ideas. We\'re always searching for ways to encourage, respect and enable everyone to be the best they can be. We want to represent the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all individuals, especially those from groups that are currently underrepresented in the organisation, as shown in our Workforce Equality Report .
For more information
To find out more please visit our leadership careers page where you can view a full list of requirements and read the Job and Person Profile (Word) .
How to apply
Step 1 - Read the Job and Person Profile (Word) .
Step 2 - Click Apply Now\' to start your online application.
Step 3 - Upload a supporting statement answering the following questions below (no more than 400 words per question). You should use the Supporting Statement template (Word) .
- Please tell us about a time you worked across organisational boundaries - such as with the NHS or VCFSE sector - to deliver integrated outcomes.
- Please tell us about your experience across adult social care, commissioning, and contract management. How have you used this expertise to improve outcomes or service quality?
- Please tell us about your experience embedding co-production into commissioning or service development. How did you ensure it was meaningful and not tokenistic?
Step 4 - Upload an up-to-date copy of your CV (four sides of A4 maximum). Please remove name and personal details.
Please note: Without a supporting statement and CV, your interest will not be progressed. Any supporting documents must be in either PDF or MS Word format.
We value authentic applications that showcase your genuine skills and experiences. Applications suspected of being generated by AI may be rejected. We encourage you to present your own work and ideas throughout the application process.
If you require any reasonable adjustments to the application process before the next selection stage, please contact our Recruitment Team by emailing recruitment@suffolk.gov.uk or calling 03456 014412. If you are invited to the next stage of selection, you will have another opportunity to request adjustments for the next stages of the process.
Closing date: 11.30pm, 29 July 2025.
Assessment centre: 20 August 2025.
This authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts.
As a modern and effective council, we offer a wide variety of careers to suit people with a range of skills, abilities and ambitions. We offer working options that flex to reflect the way people work today and take the time to understand and support your individual needs. We\'re driven to make a positive difference to the world around us and encourage everyone with drive and focus to join us and build an influential and impactful career. Reimagine the possibilities.
In return, you\'ll enjoy:
- up to 29 days annual leave entitlement (pro rata), plus UK bank holidays and two paid volunteering days
- membership of a competitive Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
- travel, lifestyle, health and wellbeing benefits
- performance-related annual pay progression, in addition to an annual cost-of-living pay increase
- training and encouragement to expand your knowledge
- a variety of career development opportunities across our organisation
- diverse and active staff networks
- flexible working options, with the right to request flexible working from your first day
If you want to know more about our benefits, values and equality commitments please visit our Suffolk County Council careers website (careers.Suffolk.gov.uk) .
#J-18808-LjbffrAssistant Director, Integrated Commissioning and Contracts in Ipswich employer: Suffolk County Council
Suffolk County Council is an exceptional employer that prioritises innovation and community impact, offering a flexible working environment with hybrid options. Employees benefit from generous annual leave, a competitive pension scheme, and numerous career development opportunities, all while contributing to meaningful change in adult social care. The council fosters a culture of collaboration and inclusivity, empowering staff to share ideas and engage in co-production for personalised service delivery.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Director, Integrated Commissioning and Contracts in Ipswich
✨Dive into Local Government Events
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We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Director, Integrated Commissioning and Contracts in Ipswich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
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How to prepare for a job interview at Suffolk County Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Suffolk County Council, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Suffolk County Council.
