At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape a new Commissioning Support Unit to improve community services.
- Company: Walsall Council, dedicated to making a real difference in the community.
- Benefits: Collaborative environment, professional development, and meaningful impact on local health and care.
- Other info: Join a forward-thinking team focused on innovative programme delivery.
- Why this job: Play a key role in transforming health, care, and education services for Walsall residents.
- Qualifications: Leadership experience and a passion for community improvement.
The predicted salary is between 85501 - 92483 € per year.
This is an exciting opportunity to shape and lead a newly established Commissioning Support Unit. The role will be responsible for overseeing key enabling functions that underpin effective commissioning, including planning, analysis, contract management, and service support functions such as social care finance, brokerage, quality, and data intelligence.
You will play a central role in developing new ways of working, strengthening system capability, and ensuring that commissioning is supported by robust, efficient and insight-driven processes.
Are you passionate about making a real difference in the community? Walsall Council is seeking dedicated, innovative individuals to join our Commissioning Team. Following a comprehensive review of commissioning functions across the Council, we are establishing a refreshed and more impactful approach to commissioning. This new model focuses on delivering meaningful outcomes, strengthening collaboration through multidisciplinary working, and adopting a people- and place-based approach to meet the needs of our communities.
We have made a significant commitment to embedding a more integrated commissioning approach, bringing together four key areas of commissioning across the Council to create a more joined-up system for Health, Care, and Communities. As part of this transformation, you will have the opportunity to contribute to and lead high-impact programmes that directly improve outcomes for residents. We are focused on strengthening customer engagement and consistently delivering high-quality, responsive services.
Why Work With Us?
- Collaborative Environment: Work alongside experienced professionals within a supportive, inclusive, and forward-thinking team.
- Professional Development: Access continuous learning and development opportunities to support your growth and career progression.
- Meaningful Impact: Play a key role in shaping the future of health, care, education, and community services in Walsall.
- Innovative Programme Delivery: Be part of ambitious and forward-looking initiatives that drive real and lasting change.
If you are ready to take on a rewarding leadership challenge and play a key role in improving outcomes for the people of Walsall, we would love to hear from you. Apply now and be part of our journey to create a healthier, more resilient community.
For further information or an informal discussion, please contact: neil.cox@walsall.gov.uk
Closing Date: 21st June 2026
This post is covered by the Government’s Code of Practice on the English Language Fluency Duty for public sector workers. The post holder will be required to communicate verbally with customers and provide advice and/or information in accurate spoken English.
Walsall Council takes seriously the responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of all the children, young people and vulnerable adults entrusted to our care and it is our expectation that all staff will share this commitment. We will ensure continuous development and improvement of robust recruitment processes and procedures that promote a culture of safeguarding amongst our workforce. Completion of an enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check is a requirement for working with children, young people and vulnerable adults.
Note: Applicants appointed to posts that require an enhanced DBS clearance must declare any periods of time that they have lived, studied or worked abroad and be prepared to provide an Overseas Criminal Records Certificate (OCRC) or a Statement of Good Conduct (SOGC) relating to anytime they were overseas.
Important note: When completing your online application form, you will be asked to enter supporting information. You must enter a detailed supporting information statement describing how your skills, abilities and experience meet the specific criteria included in the employee specification. If you do not include a supporting information statement, you will not be shortlisted. Please also ensure that you complete the work history and qualifications sections of your application form. Please do not add a CV as we do not accept them.
Please see our Information for Applicants leaflet for further information.
We kindly request that recruitment agencies do not contact us regarding this job vacancy. We are not accepting agency applications or referrals at this time.
At Walsall Council, we appreciate that AI can be a useful tool for ideas or guidance. However, we encourage you to make sure your application reflects your own voice and experiences. Over-reliance on AI can make responses feel less personal, and we really want to understand what makes you unique. Your experiences, skills, and perspective are what set you apart, so please ensure your application as a whole – particularly your ‘Supporting Information’ – reflects your own voice.
Head of CSU - Ref: SS01326 in Walsall employer: Walsall Council
Walsall Council is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and inclusive work environment where you can make a meaningful impact on the community. With a strong commitment to professional development, employees have access to continuous learning opportunities that support career progression while working on innovative programmes that drive real change in health, care, and education services. Join us in Walsall to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to improving outcomes for residents and creating a healthier, more resilient community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of CSU - Ref: SS01326 in Walsall
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to Walsall Council. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the latest trends in commissioning support. Show us you’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about how to make a real impact in the community.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your skills align with the role of Head of CSU. We want to hear how you can lead and innovate in this new team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who follow our process!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of CSU - Ref: SS01326 in Walsall
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Authentic:We want to hear your unique voice! Make sure your application reflects your personal experiences and skills. Avoid relying too much on AI; we’re interested in what makes you, you!
Tailor Your Supporting Information:When filling out the supporting information section, be specific about how your skills and experiences align with the job criteria. This is your chance to shine, so make it count!
Follow the Application Guidelines:Remember, we don’t accept CVs, so focus on completing the online application form thoroughly. Fill in all sections, especially work history and qualifications, to give us a complete picture of your background.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Walsall Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand the role of Head of Commissioning Support Unit. Familiarise yourself with key functions like planning, analysis, and contract management. This will help you demonstrate your expertise and show how you can contribute to the new model of commissioning.
✨Show Your Passion
Walsall Council is looking for individuals who are passionate about making a difference in the community. Be prepared to share specific examples of how you've positively impacted communities in your previous roles. This will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to lead high-impact programmes. Think of scenarios where you've successfully implemented change or improved processes, and be ready to discuss these in detail.
✨Engage with Their Vision
Familiarise yourself with Walsall Council's commitment to integrated commissioning and collaborative working. During the interview, express how your values align with their mission and how you can help strengthen customer engagement and service delivery.