Commissioning Officer

Are you passionate about improving the lives of residents by shaping high-quality, effective health and social care services? We're looking for a proactive and motivated Commissioning Officer to join our Older People Team within our Adults and Health Directorate. The Team has a Commissioning Officer opportunity available within the Older People Residential and Nursing portfolio area. This team focuses on the strategic development of the residential, nursing and extra care market, while providing contract management oversight for three large block contract providers.

The Team works closely with the Brokerage and Quality Assurance teams to ensure effective management of block provision and future proofing of these contracts. Our Commissioning and Procurement Hub brings together strategic and operational commissioners, alongside specialists in Quality Assurance, Placements, and Procurement. By combining expertise, experience and lessons learned, we deliver the most effective approach to every stage of the commissioning cycle, working collaboratively with other Council teams to maximise quality and value for money for our residents.

The team is responsible for the strategic commissioning of block and spot residential and nursing and extra care provision across the county. In addition, the team has contract management responsibility for three large contracts (alongside quality oversight by our quality team). As a Commissioning Officer, you will play a key role in supporting the full commissioning cycle in these work areas – from needs assessment and service design to options appraisal, procurement and performance monitoring.

• Supporting Commissioners and Strategic Leads in the development of high-quality, value-for-money services that meet the needs of our residents.
• Researching and collating information and data to support the development of strategic needs assessments and options appraisals.
• Supporting commissioning activities through effective project management, contract management and task administration.
• Assisting with financial oversight, invoicing queries, voids management and budget monitoring.
• Implementing performance reporting and contract management processes, developing strong working relationships with our commissioned providers.
• Engaging with providers and stakeholders to co-produce services.
• Contributing to innovative commissioning solutions, problem solving and service development.
• Supporting integrated working across health and social care, helping translate priorities into effective provision.

To succeed in this role, you will have:

• Solid knowledge and experience of commissioning, contract management, or a related field.
• A sound understanding of the health and social care landscape, policies and best practices, with a particular focus on older people, dementia, frailty and complex needs.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with ability to communicate clearly verbally and in writing.
• Experience of monitoring and evaluating contract compliance and performance.
• Proven research skills and ability to gather and interpret information to inform commissioning activity.
• Experience supporting financial processes and/or budget monitoring.
• Excellent workload management with the ability to manage conflicting demands and work under pressure.
• Competency in Microsoft Office, including Word and Excel.
• A degree or equivalent experience, with a commitment to ongoing professional development.
• A values-drive and outcome-focused attitude and be committed to making a difference for vulnerable people in our community.
• A full UK driving licence.

• a fair and inclusive culture
• the chance to really make a difference to those around you
• health and well-being initiatives including an Employee Assistance Programme, Mental Health First Aiders and mindfulness workshops
• a unified voice through our Employee Representative Group
• ongoing support, and the opportunity to develop and progress in your career with us
• opportunities to take part in fun activities such as fundraising and social events

Buckinghamshire Council is a relatively new organisation that combines the strengths and expertise of…