Location: Merton
Contract: Initial 3-month assignment
Hours: 4 days per week
Rate: £300 per day (via umbrella company)
Merton Council is seeking an experienced Children’s Commissioning Manager with a strong background in social care commissioning to lead critical projects aimed at shaping and improving services for vulnerable children and young people. This is a high-impact interim role focused on delivering change in one of our top priority areas.
Key Responsibilities: You will play a key role in:
- Finalising future arrangements for semi-independent accommodation commissioning and housing pathways
- Leading the strategic development of the residential care market, including exploring the potential development of a council-led children’s home
- Negotiating placement fees and managing provider relationships
- Driving commissioning change to ensure high-quality, cost-effective services
- Producing detailed service reviews and reports for senior leadership
- Using data and performance intelligence to inform decision-making and monitor outcomes
- Proven experience in placements commissioning and fee negotiation within children’s social care
- Strong track record of delivering commissioning change in a public sector context
- In-depth understanding of the commissioning cycle – from needs analysis and market shaping to procurement and contract management
- Ability to manage complex housing and accommodation commissioning challenges
- Excellent report-writing and data analysis skills
- Degree or equivalent professional qualification; commissioning qualification or significant commissioning experience is essential
Apply now to help shape the future of children's social care in Merton.
