Contracts, Commissioning and Placements Officer

Contracts, Commissioning & Placements Officer
Location: Bury Council - Children's Services (based at 3 Knowsley Place, with flexibility across the borough)
Hours: 37 hours per week (subject to the Council's Flexitime Scheme)

Are you an experienced professional with a passion for improving outcomes for children and young people? Bury Council is looking for a Contracts, Commissioning & Placements Officer to join our Children's Commissioning Team.

In this crucial role, you will work closely with Children's Social Care to source and coordinate high-quality placements that meet the individual needs of our looked after children and young people. You'll play a key role in commissioning services, managing contracts, and ensuring financial accountability across a range of placements including residential care, supported accommodation, and independent fostering arrangements.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Sourcing and supporting the provision of placements based on quality, suitability, and value for money
  
  
• Liaising with internal and external stakeholders including providers, social workers, and other local authorities
  
  
• Reviewing referrals and ensuring compliance with data protection and audit standards
  
  
• Managing financial aspects of placements including raising purchase orders, processing invoices, and forecasting budgets
  
  
• Supporting strategic commissioning and contract development across Children's Services
  
  
• Contributing to regional commissioning initiatives and quarterly reporting
  
  

What We're Looking For:

• Experience within commissioning, procurement, or contract management, ideally within a social care or public sector setting
  
  
• Strong understanding of children's services, safeguarding, and relevant legislation
  
  
• Excellent organisational and communication skills
  
  
• Competency in using IT systems including Microsoft Excel and databases for financial and placement tracking
  
  
• A proactive, analytical approach to problem-solving and service improvement
  
  

This is a fantastic opportunity to make a difference in the lives of children and young people while contributing to the strategic development of services across the borough.

To apply or learn more, please contact John Deane at .