Commissioning Leader: Special Educational Needs & Disabilities

We recognise that the public service landscape has changed fundamentally in recent years. Financial challenges and rising residents’ expectations mean that traditional delivery models are no longer viable. So we’re reimagining our organisation for the world we’re in. We’re creating a more agile and responsive council, with a sharper commercial focus, greater flexibility to innovate, and more autonomy for professionals.

It won’t happen overnight, but the next 2-3 years will see us move to a ‘Commissioning Hub’ model, equipping us with the right structure and data to make informed and sustainable decisions on the best way to secure positive outcomes for our residents. In turn, this creates opportunities for people who want to be at the forefront of this change, and who are excited by the prospect of doing things differently.

Reporting to Director of Education and Skills Services, this role will cover the following portfolio:

• SEN
• 0-25 Education
• Brokerage (packages)
• Transport
• 16-25 commissioning (special education and high need placements)
• Educational Psychology
• Disabled children’s services
• Specialist Support services

Building effective professional relationships will be essential to this role. You need to be able to engage with Head Teachers, Health colleagues, the CCG and directly with parents. There is much to be done in addressing the financial challenges within this service area. As demand on services increases it’s essential that we look to new ways of supporting children and this will require a holistic perspective - someone who can see work across specialisms to create the right packages of support, within the resources available. It demands the ability to think beyond traditional SEND provision, to ensure a clear focus on outcomes, and to measure value for money effectively.

To find out more, visit www.join-newham.co.uk  or contact Steve Guest at Solace in Business on 020 7976 3311 for a confidential discussion.

Closing date: noon, 6 November.