At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead transformation and commissioning programmes to improve outcomes for children and families.
- Company: Join Wokingham Borough Council, a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to community welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous annual leave, health support, gym access, and local discounts.
- Other info: Work in a vibrant area with excellent transport links and a supportive community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's services and shape the future of local communities.
- Qualifications: Experience in strategic commissioning and transformation within children's services is essential.
The predicted salary is between 60957 - 66808 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Transformation and Commissioning Manager to join our Children’s Strategy, Transformation and Commissioning Service at Wokingham Borough Council, on a full-time, permanent basis. This is a pivotal leadership role where you will shape and oversee a significant portfolio of transformation and commissioning programmes across Early Help, Social Care, Education and Health. You will ensure activity is aligned to strategic priorities, responsive to local need and focused on improving outcomes for children, young people and families.
Working collaboratively across the council and with health, education, providers and the voluntary and community sector, you will lead relational commissioning approaches, strengthen trust-based partnerships and help deliver more joined-up, preventative and inclusive services. You will also ensure that the voices and lived experiences of children and families directly influence service design and evaluation.
We are looking for a strategic, collaborative and outcome-focused leader with significant experience of commissioning and transformation. In return, you will join a forward-thinking service with the opportunity to influence major reforms, lead system-wide change and make a lasting difference for local children and families.
You will receive an extensive range of employee benefits including:
- Generous Annual Leave- 31 days per annum (rising by 5 days with 5 years continued local government service), plus Bank Holidays
- GP Helpline- Available 7 days a week
- Employee Assistance Programme- Including a 24/7 Your Care Helpline
- Free Onsite Gym- Located at Shute End Offices, Wokingham
- Salary Sacrifice Schemes- Including Car and Cycle to Work schemes
- Local & Lifestyle Discounts- Save on shopping, entertainment, dining out & more
- Move through Menopause Course
- Sports & Social Group Activities– Including running, football, cricket & more
- And more!
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and provide strategic oversight across a portfolio of transformation and commissioning programmes aligned to strategic priorities and local needs.
- Develop commissioning strategies and manage the full commissioning cycle, including needs assessment, service design, procurement, contract management and performance monitoring.
- Coordinate complex programmes of change, managing interdependencies, risks, budgets and delivery against agreed outcomes and timescales.
- Shape and develop the provider market to support a diverse, high-quality and sustainable service offer that delivers value for money.
- Build strong partnerships across the council, health, education, providers and the voluntary and community sector, representing the service at strategic boards and multi‑agency forums.
- Embed co‑production and participation so that children, young people and families meaningfully influence planning, commissioning, service design and evaluation.
- Provide high‑quality reports, briefings and presentations to senior leaders, elected members and stakeholders, using evidence and insight to support decision‑making.
- Lead, support and develop Transformation and Commissioning Officers, promoting innovation, continuous improvement and shared accountability.
Candidate Requirements:
- Educated to degree level or equivalent, or able to demonstrate extensive experience in strategic commissioning across social care and/or health.
- Significant experience of leading strategic transformation programmes within children’s services or a closely related field.
- A proven track record in strategic commissioning, including service design, procurement, contract management and performance monitoring.
- Experience of overseeing multiple programmes or a portfolio of work, including managing interdependencies and strategic priorities.
- Strong knowledge of at least one area of children’s services, with awareness of relevant legislation, statutory guidance and safeguarding responsibilities.
- Excellent analytical and communication skills, with the ability to interpret data, produce high‑quality reports and influence senior stakeholders.
- Demonstrable experience of involving children, young people and families in service development and evaluation.
- A collaborative, inclusive and resilient leadership style, with a strong commitment to equity, innovation and continuous improvement.
Wokingham Borough is set in the heart of Berkshire with excellent transport links to Reading and central London. Our area comprises of a vibrant and historical market town, attractive villages, and miles of beautiful countryside. We’re home to a range of high performing schools, a host of international businesses and an incredible community. The borough has a strong local economy with accelerated growth, a range of excellent public facilities and low levels of crime, offering an exceptional quality of life.
Wokingham Borough Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expects all staff, other workers and volunteers to share this commitment. All successful candidates for this role will be subject to Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks along with other relevant employment checks.
Transformation & Commissioning Manager - Children's Services in Wokingham employer: Wokingham Borough Council
Wokingham Borough Council is an exceptional employer for ASYE Social Workers, offering a supportive environment with a dedicated in-house ASYE Programme that fosters professional growth and confidence. Employees benefit from generous annual leave, a free onsite gym, and a range of lifestyle discounts, all while working in a vibrant area known for its excellent transport links and community spirit. With a strong focus on peer support and development, Wokingham has successfully retained over 80% of its ASYE workforce, making it a fantastic place to start your social work career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Transformation & Commissioning Manager - Children's Services in Wokingham
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Wokingham Borough Council, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Wokingham Borough Council and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Transformation & Commissioning Manager - Children's Services in Wokingham
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.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Wokingham Borough Council and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wokingham Borough Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Wokingham Borough 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 Wokingham Borough Council.
