Transport Commissioning & Allocation Officer in Worcester

Are you ready to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable adults and children across Worcestershire? We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Transport Commissioning & Allocation Officer to join our Integrated Transport team. This pivotal role ensures the safe, efficient, and cost-effective delivery of transport services for Adult and Children’s Social Care, as well as Mainstream and Special Educational Needs (SEN) clients, within a dynamic, demand-responsive environment.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day operational, contractual, and performance management of all social care, Mainstream and SEN transport contracts, ensuring compliance with council policies and statutory requirements.
• Lead negotiations and arrange transport contracts, ensuring all commissioning and audit procedures are followed, and databases are accurately maintained.
• Collaborate with Team Leaders, social workers, short break centres, operators, and parents/carers to commission and review transport provision that meets specialist client needs, adapting swiftly to changing demands.
• Support the development of innovative passenger transport initiatives, identifying market-shaping opportunities and cost reduction strategies in line with legislation and council objectives.
• Produce comprehensive reports on contractual amendments, cost impacts, client trends, and key performance indicators for senior management review.
• Manage and resolve enquiries and complaints from stakeholders, ensuring clear communication and appropriate action.
• Ensure all contract and client information is recorded and stored securely, in compliance with data protection and council procedures.
• Represent the authority at consultation meetings, forums, and surgeries on transport-related matters, maintaining a high standard of professionalism and diplomacy.

Qualifications

• Strong financial acumen with experience in monitoring and reporting.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to write complex reports and liaise effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.
• IT skills, particularly in database management and Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to prioritise workloads, work both independently and as part of a team, and make informed decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience working with third sector organisations and understanding the diverse needs of social care and SEN clients.
• Knowledge of safeguarding, health & safety, and risk assessment procedures.

Desirable

• Knowledge of transport legislation, including taxi and PSV licensing.
• Experience in market shaping, LEAN processes, and networking within local government.
• Relevant transport or professional qualifications (e.g., CPC in Passenger Transport, European Computer Driving Licence).

Flexible working arrangements and the opportunity to attend meetings at various locations. You will have significant experience in a multi-disciplinary administrative or financial role within a customer-driven service, ideally with a background in transport commissioning or a commercially related field. Your proven ability to manage budgets, negotiate with commercial enterprises, and deliver service improvements will be essential. Willingness to adapt to change, work outside normal office hours, and travel at short notice within Worcestershire. Commitment to equality, diversity, and continuous improvement in service delivery. If you are passionate about delivering high-quality transport solutions and have the skills and experience to thrive in this challenging role, we would love to hear from you. Apply today to join our dedicated team and make a real impact in your community.

Benefits

• Great Holiday Entitlement: As well as bank holidays, you'll get 26 days paid holiday (pro rata for part-time staff). This goes up to 31 days when you have been with us for 5 years.
• Brilliant Pension Scheme: The Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) is a nationwide, career average pension scheme and is a valuable part of the pay and reward package for employees working in local government.
• Professional Learning & Development: We actively encourage learning and development for all our staff should they want to progress further or explore other areas within the organisation.
• Flexible Working: We are proud to offer hybrid working to provide a better work/life balance where possible.