Commissioning Manager

Are you passionate about improving outcomes for communities through strategic commissioning?

Buckinghamshire Council is looking for a dynamic Strategic Commissioning Manager to join the Strategic Commissioning for Older People Team within our Adults and Health Directorate. This team plays a crucial role in shaping and delivering high-quality, person-centred care and support to older adults across Buckinghamshire. Our work is underpinned by the values of dignity, independence, and community wellbeing.

The Team has a permanent Strategic Commissioning Manager 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.

This Hub’s design offers a unique career development pathway across a range of strategic commissioning and procurement roles. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to progress their careers, now or in the future.

This role is pivotal in developing high-quality, outcome-focused services that deliver value for money. Over the next three years, this role will lead on key commissioning and procurement priorities. The role covers a range of commissioned services and responsibilities, focusing on:

Over 65s Residential and Nursing Care

• Strategic development of the older people’s residential and nursing care market.
• Contract and relationship management responsibility and oversight of block residential and nursing contracts (shared responsibility with a second Commissioning Manager).
• Contract and relationship management responsibility and oversight of block extra care contracts (shared responsibility with a second Commissioning Manager).
• Strategic development of extra care provision working alongside the Older People and Market Development Team.

Respite Provision

• Strategic development of older people’s overnight respite provision.

As a Strategic Commissioning Manager, you will:

• Lead the full commissioning cycle across designated portfolios.
• Lead on contract management oversight
• Drive transformational change in partnership with the Integrated Care Board (ICB).
• Oversee strategic needs assessments and contribute to business planning.
• Ensure services meet statutory requirements, safeguarding standards, and reflect best practice.
• Represent the Council in external meetings and deputise for the Strategic Commissioning Lead when required
• Promote innovation, continuous improvement, and resident engagement in service design.
• Translate health and social care priorities into integrated service delivery.

Please note, there is no line management responsibility within these roles, but the post holder will provide indirect support to Commissioning Officers and Commissioning Support Officers.

You will be a confident and strategic leader with:

• Substantial relevant experience in a senior role in this service areas or related professional field.
• Expert knowledge of the commissioning cycle and relevant legislation.
• Strong strategic awareness and commercial acumen.
• Proven ability to lead multi-agency partnerships and influence stakeholders.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and analytical skills.
• A commitment to improving outcomes for vulnerable individuals.
• A degree-level education (or equivalent) and relevant professional qualifications.
• A driving license is essential.

Other information

For more information, contact Erica Taylor, Strategic Commissioning Lead at erica.t