Senior SEND Commissioning Leader

Cheshire East Council; Crewe; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 63,000; Full time

Job summary

Cheshire East Council in Crewe is seeking a Senior Commissioning Manager (SEND) to lead strategic commissioning across Children's Services. You will shape portfolios, drive market development, and ensure value for money and improved outcomes for children, young people and families.

The role requires strong experience in commissioning for children, strategy development, procurement, and contract management within the public sector, with a focus on SEND Code of Practice and safeguarding

Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent experience in commissioning, public service or related field.
• Substantial experience of commissioning services for children and young people.
• Experience in strategy development, market management, contracting and performance within a complex public-sector environment.
• Understanding of the commissioning cycle.
• Knowledge of SEND Code of Practice, Children Act duties, and procurement regulations.
• Understanding of safeguarding expectations and quality assurance principles.
• Application of needs assessment, outcomes-based commissioning and options appraisal techniques.

Responsibilities

• Act as strategic portfolio lead for defined commissioning areas (e.g. SEND) with accountability for outcomes and spend.
• Develop and refresh portfolio commissioning and joint commissioning strategies.
• Lead needs assessment, demand and sufficiency analysis using data and intelligence.
• Shape and manage provider markets, including statements and frameworks.
• Lead complex procurement, contracting and negotiation within the portfolio.
• Oversee contract management and performance assurance, addressing underperformance and safeguarding concerns.

Skills

Strategic portfolio leadership

Needs assessment & market analysis

Contracting & procurement

Performance management

Public sector experience

Education

Degree or equivalent experience in commissioning

Job description

Cheshire East Council in Crewe is seeking a Senior Commissioning Manager (SEND) to lead strategic commissioning across Children's Services. You will shape portfolios, drive market development, and ensure value for money and improved outcomes for children, young people and families.

The role requires strong experience in commissioning for children, strategy development, procurement, and contract management within the public sector, with a focus on SEND Code of Practice and safeguarding