Head of Commissioning Operations

Head of Commissioning Operations

We are working with a leading care provider to recruit an experienced Head of Commissioning to support the growth and delivery of a specialist complex care portfolio.

This is a pivotal senior leadership role for an operationally strong, values-led professional who can balance strategic oversight with hands-on delivery. You will be responsible for driving service performance, supporting mobilisation of new services, and ensuring high standards of quality, compliance, and person-centred care.
The successful candidate will have a strong background in complex residential or supported care services in particular mental health and dementia, with experience of working with commissioned pathways and building effective relationships with commissioners, local authorities, NHS partners, and internal stakeholders.

The Role
In this role, you will:
Lead the operational strategy across specialist services
Support the mobilisation and development of new services and contracts
Build strong working relationships with commissioners, professionals, families, and internal teams
Lead tender activity and commissioning opportunities
Coach and support Registered Managers, Service Leads, and wider operational teams
Drive improvement, change, and service transformation
About You
We are looking for a confident and resilient operational leader with a proven background in health or social care, ideally within complex residential services.
You will bring:
Senior operational leadership experience in health or social care
Experience managing services for people with complex mental health and dementia needs
Knowledge of commissioned services, including Local Authority and NHS pathways
Strong understanding of CQC regulations, legislation, and quality standards
Experience of mobilisation, commissioning discussions, and/or contract management
Solid understanding of positive behaviour support and risk management
Previous experience as a successful commissioning home manager, with additional experience as Operations Manager
Financial awareness and experience managing budgets
A Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care is desirable, or a willingness to work towards it.

What’s on Offer
£90,000pa dependent on experience
Car Allowance
Company pension scheme
Fully funded DBS check
Career development and progression opportunities
Access to Blue Light Card discounts
Recognition schemes and referral bonuses
Interested?
If you’re an experienced operational leader with lots of commissioning experience under your belt and looking for your next challenge in specialist complex care, we’d love to hear from you.

LICMT