Commissioning Head of Service (Starting Well)
- Rebecca Martin
- Principal Delivery Consultant
Job Advert: Commissioning Head of Service (Starting Well)
Job Titles: Commissioning Head of Service (Starting Well)
Contract: Permanent
Location: Herefordshire Council, Plough Lane offices – 2 days onsite per week
Hours: 37 per week
Salary: £66,734 – £71,738 per annum (inclusive of £5,000 Supplement)
Closing date: 01/07/2024
Interview date: 22/07/2024
About
We are looking for an experienced leader to manage large and complex service areas, ensuring that we meet the needs of our customers and community efficiently. As one of three Commissioning Heads of Service, you will lead and manage the delivery of service objectives at each stage of the commissioning cycle, ensuring high-quality services for residents, effective partnerships, with robust contract and performance management. This is a new opportunity within our All Ages Commissioning Structure as we embark on some exciting transformation within Herefordshire Council.
Commissioning Head of Service (Starting Well)
The successful candidate will oversee quality assurance, residential care, and fostering services, ensuring exceptional residential placements for children looked after (CLA). Key responsibilities include managing SEND and education placements, alternative provision, short breaks, early help contracts, family support, and adoption services. The role also involves coordinating the Placement Portal, Sufficiency Strategy, HIPPS service, and accommodation for ages 16-25. A strong commitment to addressing domestic abuse and enhancing holistic care is essential.
Role:
Lead and Manage: Oversee the operational delivery of service objectives at each stage of the commissioning cycle. Ensure that services are effectively commissioned, managed, and delivered to meet the needs of our residents.
Service Area Oversight: Manage large, complex service areas with a focus on efficiency and quality. Ensure services are aligned with identified customer and community needs.
Operational Planning: Shape and implement operational plans for your area of responsibility, ensuring alignment with broader organisational goals.
Partnership Development: Build and maintain effective partnerships with key stakeholders and market managers to deliver high-quality services.
Performance Management: Ensure robust contract and performance management to maintain high standards and continuous improvement in service delivery.
Innovative Approaches: Develop and implement innovative approaches to service delivery, thinking ahead to address future challenges and opportunities.
Customer Involvement: Lead initiatives to involve customers in service development and improvement, ensuring their voices are heard and needs are met.
Strategic Awareness: Maintain strong organisational and political awareness to navigate and influence broader service delivery perspectives.
About You
We need someone who can hit the ground running and join our team with the following:
- An excellent professional, technical, and developmental record focused on public service, with relevant specialist knowledge in more than one discipline/function.
- Experience as a business unit leader with a track record of delivering high-quality public services.
- Demonstrable expertise and significant achievement in a related service area.
- Experience leading customer involvement initiatives and utilising market analysis approaches.
- Ability to think ahead and deliver innovative approaches to service delivery.
- Strong organisational and political awareness with a history of successful service delivery beyond your service area.
- Capability to facilitate change and implement corporate plans in your area.
- A full driving licence and access to a car for regular travel throughout Herefordshire.
We Offer
- Competitive Salary: Starting at £66,734 – £71,738 per annum (inclusive of £5,000 Supplement)
- Pension Scheme: Enrolment in the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
- Annual Leave: 31 days’ annual leave (pro rata) plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase an additional 10 days per annum with line manager approval
- Flexible Working: 2 days in the office per week, 3 days remote
- Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 access to support and counselling
Why Choose Us?
Herefordshire offers beautiful countryside and vibrant communities. Our Talk Community approach supports people in helping themselves and their communities. Our ambitious transformation programme aims to benefit all residents of Herefordshire, and we’re excited about the potential of what we can achieve for the benefit of all residents in Herefordshire. The people of Herefordshire deserve good quality, high performing services – nothing less is good enough. If you want to embrace the challenge and reward of being part of Herefordshire’s improvement, this is a great time to join us and become part of our journey. If you are looking to join a service that has corporate, partnership and political support we would love to hear from you.
Creating an Inclusive Workplace
Herefordshire Council is dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment that reflects the communities we serve. Employee Network Groups play a crucial role in amplifying the voices of employees at Herefordshire Council. These groups include the Black and Asian Staff Networking Group, LGBTQ+, Parents & Carers, Climate and Nature Emergency, Diff-abilities, and Armed Forces/Veterans.
How to Apply
To find out more about the posts and apply, please contact Rebecca Martin or Samuel Bos-Coley and send an up-to-date CV.
- Rebecca Martin at or Tel: 07488889306
- Samuel Bos-Coley at or Tel: 0117 420 0091
If you are interested in pursuing the role we will also need a supporting statement demonstrating your experience, skills, and abilities for the position.
Safeguarding Commitment
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. If offered this position, it will be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service enhanced check and further pre-employment checks.
Good luck; we look forward to meeting you!
Stronger Together, Building Brighter Futures
Please see a summary video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjfcSfPUcvE
