Lead Commissioning Officer

In Barnsley we have a strong vision to make Barnsley the place of possibilities for all children, young people and families. This means that our children can start their life well, have the opportunity to learn, develop new skills and achieve their personal potential. 

We’re excited to be recruiting for a Lead Commissioning Officer here in Barnsley, the place of possibilities.

Within the Childrens Commissioning, team an opportunity has arisen for a talented individual to help drive the commissioning of quality services to improve outcomes for Barnsley families. With a strong focus on improving outcomes for children, young people & families, the post-holder will need to be comfortable working with vulnerable groups and should be able to operate effectively in a rapidly changing environment.  Alongside a sound grasp of the commissioning cycle, experience in the planning and/or delivery of services to vulnerable groups is essential

To contribute to this vision, we are looking to recruit talented service commissioners who have the aptitude for understanding complex needs, the ability to take a whole system view and the creativity to improve services working with service users, and also the skills to encourage a strong provider market. 

This post will be the lead commissioner for Childrens placements and will support our placements team working with existing and developing new providers as part of our approach in managing placement sufficiency. You will be responsible for the commissioning, quality assurance and contract management of a range of services to improve outcomes for children, young people, and their families. This will include leading commissioning arrangements for children’s residential care, independent fostering and semi-independent provision for our care leavers.

To be successful, you will need to have experience of working with complex groups, service users and families, as well as a sound grasp of the commissioning cycle and be able to demonstrate your ability to work in partnership with senior managers across the system and highlight methods for measuring impact and outcomes.

This includes specific experience and knowledge in relation to children who need Local Authority Care.  You will be experienced in partnership working, stakeholder engagement, and understand national policy and local need. 

In Barnsley we value honesty, teamwork, excellent service and taking pride in what we do. If you believe you have the relevant skills then we would like to hear from you!

For further details of what the role involves and a breakdown on the criteria for applicants can be found in the attached.  If you would like to talk to discuss your application please do get in touch – Steve Harrison, Head of Service- Children’s Commissioning : 07810830897