Commissioning and Contract Manager

Job Description

Salary £46,142 - £51,356 | 37 hours per week | Permanent, Full time | Hybrid | County Hall, Preston

We are looking for an experienced and forward-thinking Commissioning and Contract Manager to join our Adults, Health and Wellbeing team. This is a key leadership role, shaping strategic commissioning priorities, influencing system-wide improvement and driving high-quality Adult Social Care provision across Lancashire. You will support the full commissioning cycle, helping to translate strategic priorities into effective service delivery that enables people to live better lives.

Working collaboratively with colleagues, partners and providers, you will ensure services are sustainable, person-centred and enable people to live better lives.

• Lead the development and delivery of commissioning strategies and service models that improve outcomes and enable people to live better lives.
• Build and influence effective relationships with providers, partners and stakeholders to shape the market and support sustainable, high‑quality provision.
• Provide oversight and challenge on contract performance, driving continuous improvement, value for money and strong governance across commissioned services.
• Champion co‑production lived experience and partnership working to influence service delivery and deliver person‑centred, strengths‑based approaches.
• Use data, insight, performance and financial information to inform strategic decisions, prioritise resources and support long‑term service improvement.
• Lead and develop high‑performing teams, creating clarity, accountability and a positive culture that supports people to perform at their best and deliver continuous improvement.
• Lead assurance on risk, quality and safeguarding, ensuring commissioned services are compliant, resilient and responsive to changing needs.

• Have experience in commissioning and/or contract management, ideally within Adult Social Care or a related field.
• Understand the Care Act 2014 and key commissioning principles.
• Are confident working with a range of stakeholders, building strong relationships and influencing outcomes.
• Have strong analytical, communication and problem‑solving skills.
• Can manage competing priorities and work effectively in a changing environment.
• Are committed to delivering high‑quality, person‑centred services.

• Be part of a collaborative and forward‑thinking commissioning team.
• Work in a role where you can make a real impact on people’s lives.
• Benefit from hybrid working arrangements.
• Access a wide range of learning and development opportunities.
• Be supported to grow your skills and career within a large and diverse organisation.

• Supportive
• Innovative
• Respectful
• Collaborative

This is an essential car user post, and you will be required to travel across the county as part of the role. You will be required to provide a car for use in connection with the duties of this post and must be insured for business use. However, we may consider you if you cannot drive because of a disability.

There are 4 posts available. Two are full‑time permanent. One is full‑time fixed term for 12-18 months and one full‑time fixed term till 30th September 2026.