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- Tasks: Lead and transform the Children’s Commissioning team to improve services for children and families.
- Company: Join a committed council focused on delivering high-quality care and support.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, permanent contract, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Shape the future of children's services and drive meaningful change in your community.
- Qualifications: Significant experience in commissioning and strong leadership skills required.
- Other info: Opportunity to work collaboratively in a dynamic environment with ambitious goals.
The predicted salary is between 75312 - 87033 ÂŁ per year.
Salary: £75,312 – £87,033 per annum (pro rata if part‑time)
Grade: I
Contract type: Permanent
Working hours: 37 hours per week
We are seeking an experienced, forward‑thinking Head of Children’s Commissioning to lead our commissioning function at a crucial and exciting point in our journey. As a council, we are undertaking a strategic review of our commissioning arrangements to ensure they are fit for the future, aligned with the needs of our communities as we become an Enabling Council. This review presents a unique opportunity to shape the way we work, strengthen our approach, and embed a commissioning model that is sustainable, consistent, innovative, and outcome‑focused. During this period of change, we are committed to delivering high‑quality, safe, and effective commissioned services for our children, young people, and families. Your leadership will be central to ensuring we continue to meet this commitment.
About the Role
- Lead and develop the Children’s Commissioning team through a period of transformation.
- Drive strategic commissioning across early help, social care, SEND, placements, and wider children’s services.
- Build productive partnerships with providers, stakeholders, and system leaders.
- Ensure best value, strong quality assurance, and positive outcomes for children and young people.
- Contribute to strategic decision‑making across the directorate and wider council.
- Contribute to our decisions about, and delivery of, our future commissioning arrangements.
About You
- Brings significant experience in commissioning for children’s services.
- Can operate confidently at a strategic level while maintaining a strong grasp of operational realities.
- Has the resilience, creativity, and leadership skills to guide teams through change.
- Is motivated by improving the lives of children and young people.
- Works collaboratively and builds strong relationships in complex systems.
Why Join Us?
This is a rare opportunity to lead meaningful change, shape a new commissioning landscape, and make a profound difference for children and young people in our community. You will join a council that is committed, ambitious, and determined to deliver the highest standards of care and support.
DBS Check: Basic (DBS) check is required for this post.
Closing dates: Redeployment only – 19.03.2026; Internal & External – 06.04.2026.
Interview: 22.04.2026.
If you have any questions about the role or interview process, please contact Michele Lucas.
Head of Children\'s Commissioning in Essex employer: Thurrock Council
Contact Detail:
Thurrock Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Children\'s Commissioning in Essex
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the children's services sector. Attend relevant events or webinars where you can meet potential employers and showcase your passion for improving the lives of children and young people.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the council's current commissioning strategies and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. Be ready to discuss how you can lead teams through transformation and drive positive outcomes.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've successfully guided teams through change. Highlight your ability to build strong relationships with stakeholders and providers.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application directly, so make sure you submit it there. It’s the best way for us to get to know you and your commitment to making a difference in children's services.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Children\'s Commissioning in Essex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Head of Children's Commissioning role. Highlight your relevant experience in commissioning for children's services and how it aligns with our vision at StudySmarter.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: We want to see your leadership style! Share examples of how you've guided teams through change and improved outcomes for children and young people. This is your chance to shine, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and passion for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thurrock Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of children's commissioning. Brush up on current trends, challenges, and best practices in the field. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your commitment to improving the lives of children and young people.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience, especially in times of change. Think about how you've guided teams through transformation and how you’ve built strong relationships with stakeholders. This is your chance to shine a light on your resilience and creativity!
✨Understand the Council's Vision
Familiarise yourself with the council’s strategic goals and how they align with the role. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their vision of becoming an Enabling Council and what innovative approaches you would bring to the table.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions that reflect your understanding of the role and the challenges ahead. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you gauge if the council's values align with yours. Plus, it’s a great way to engage with the interviewers!