Benefits and Homeless Prevention - Strategic Commissioner

Knowledge, Skills, and Experience:

• At least 4 years in a commissioning role within adult social care, housing, homelessness, or health services, with a track record in programme management and development.
• Proven ability to design and implement commercially viable commissioning strategies, manage performance, and deliver programmes against standards.
• Demonstrated leadership skills, including managing staff (specifically two quality assurance officers), handling employee relations, and creating a high-performance culture.
• Extensive knowledge in homelessness and allocations legislation or Housing and Council Tax Benefit legislation, with a working knowledge of the other.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with experience presenting to diverse audiences and working effectively with partners and stakeholders.
• Strong understanding of commissioning processes, strategic commissioning, procurement, and contract management, including contract extensions and re-tendering.
• Experience leading and implementing projects within deadlines and managing budgets.
• Ability to advise on complex issues, influence decision-makers, and work under pressure to meet targets.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a track record of developing innovative service solutions.
• High level of knowledge in equality, diversity, and inclusion, with experience in trauma-informed and anti-racist practices.
• Commissioning new supported accommodation for residents who are homeless or rough sleeping with multiple complex needs. Driving the procurement process in a fast-paced environment, managing contract monitoring for value for money and improved outcomes, and being hands-on with providers.
• Highly organized with the ability to manage contract extensions, re-tendering, and effectively navigate the procurement process.

Desirable:

- Membership of relevant professional bodies (e.g., Institute of Revenues, Rating and Valuation).
- Degree-level education or relevant professional qualifications.
- Evidence of ongoing professional development