Commissioning Specialist - SEND

Commissioning Specialist - SEND 37 hours Grade PO12 - £49,282 - £52,413 About the role At Telford & Wrekin Council we are committed to improving outcomes for children and young people and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive. We are looking for an experienced and highly motivated SEND Commissioner to lead the strategic commissioning and development of services for children and young people aged 0-25 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). This is a key role, responsible for ensuring high‑quality, inclusive and cost‑effective provision that meets both local need and statutory requirements. In this role, you will lead the Local Authority’s commissioning of SEND services across education, health and care, with a particular focus on health‑related provision and integrated, system‑wide delivery. Responsibilities * Lead and coordinate commissioning across targeted, targeted plus and specialist provision * Commission a wide range of services including therapies (e.g. SALT, OT, physiotherapy), mental health support and specialist provision * Develop and implement commissioning strategies aligned to local priorities, including the SEND JSNA and Local Inclusion Plan * Shape and manage the provider market, ensuring sufficiency, quality and value for money * Monitor service performance, outcomes and impact, using data to identify gaps and drive improvement * Lead partnership working with key stakeholders including ICBs, NHS providers, schools and voluntary sector partners * Provide expert advice to senior leaders, boards and partners, influencing policy and system development * Champion co‑production with children, young people and families * Ensure compliance with statutory requirements, including the SEND Code of Practice and Children and Families Act 2014 Key Requirements We are looking for someone who can operate confidently at a strategic level and bring strong commissioning expertise within a complex system. * Have significant experience of commissioning, ideally within SEND or children’s services * Have a strong understanding of SEND legislation, EHCP processes and partnership working * Be experienced in managing budgets, contracts and provider performance * Demonstrate excellent communication, negotiation and analytical skills * Be able to analyse complex information and translate this into effective strategies and solutions * Have strong leadership, organisational and problem‑solving skills * Be committed to inclusion, co‑production and improving outcomes for children and young people A degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field is essential, with postgraduate or commissioning‑related qualifications desirable. Selection Process As part of the recruitment process, candidates will be required to deliver a 5 minute presentation on the opportunities and challenges associated with SEND joint commissioning. Benefits * Competitive salaries and a fantastic leave package – starting at 24 days, rising to 32 days with service, plus 8 bank holidays and an extra concessionary day to enjoy * Flexible working and career progression * Local Government Pension Scheme * Staff discounts and salary sacrifice perks * Free parking and confidential wellbeing support * Hybrid working model – whether you are in the office or working from home, we support a balance that fits your personal and family commitments Roles involving children or vulnerable adults will require a criminal records check. It is an offence to apply if you are barred from working with these groups. We do not hold a sponsorship licence for visas. #J-18808-Ljbffr