Programme Manager – Joint Commissioning Team

Do you want to lead commissioning, procurement and contract management work that helps improve outcomes for children and young people with additional needs and SEND? Then this Programme Manager role in our Joint Commissioning Team could be an excellent opportunity to use your project management, partnership and contract management expertise to make a meaningful difference across education, children’s social care and health. The Education Division champions improved educational outcomes for all children and young people, particularly those who are vulnerable to underachievement. In this role, you will support the Joint Commissioning Team across education, children’s social care and health by leading project management for contractual processes, procurement frameworks, SEND Brokerage and contract support, and quality assurance activity. You will work closely with managers across the Division to ensure contracts are issued efficiently, frameworks are compliant, and commissioned services are outcome-focused and deliver value for money. What you will be doing Lead and manage contractual frameworks, ensuring compliance with procurement, financial and HR regulations. Develop, manage and quality assure contract management and evaluation processes, including activity linked to SEND Brokerage and contract support. Support managers across the Education Division to use contractual frameworks effectively and maintain a high-quality external provider market. Build effective relationships with internal and external partners, including schools, County Councillors, stakeholders and partnership organisations. Lead and support operational delivery through robust analysis of data, financial information and commissioned service outcomes. Keep up to date with relevant legislation, best practice and local or national initiatives, translating these into effective practice where appropriate. Candidate criteria Hold an RQF Level 5 qualification in Contract Management, Commissioning or Project Management in a health or social care setting, or have equivalent relevant experience. Have strong knowledge of contract management, commissioning, procurement frameworks and project management in a health, education or social care setting. Can develop an evidence base and use data, financial information and analysis to produce clear reports, arguments and recommendations. Have excellent interpersonal, communication, coaching and presentation skills, with the ability to give credible advice and work constructively with partners. Can manage, prioritise and organise a demanding workload, including competing deadlines and budget responsibilities. Are committed to equal opportunities, anti-discriminatory practice and contributing to an inclusive and supportive working environment. Please download the full job description and person specification for more information. We warmly welcome applications from all sections of the community. We particularly encourage applications from people who are underrepresented in our current workforce, including people from ethnically diverse backgrounds, disabled people and people from LGBTQ+ communities. We are working towards recruiting a workforce that reflects our community, because we recognise the value of diverse perspectives and experiences. We are committed to equal opportunities and anti-discriminatory practice, and to creating an inclusive and supportive working environment. When applying for this role, please upload your CV and supporting statement. When writing your supporting statement, please explain how you meet the following criteria in the person specification, drawing on any relevant work/life experience, education or personal interests: Your qualification or equivalent experience in contract management, commissioning or project management. Your knowledge of commissioning, procurement frameworks, procurement processes and contract management. Your experience of implementing new systems or processes across service areas. How you use evidence, data or financial information to support decision-making and demonstrate impact or value for money. Your experience of supporting teams in operational delivery and fostering a supportive culture for staff. How you manage competing priorities, budgets and deadlines under pressure. Your commitment to equal opportunities, anti-discriminatory practice and inclusive partnership working. For guidance on how to write an application see our how to apply page and our statement on the use of AI . Interviews will take place in person at our council offices in either Hastings or Lewes. Interviews will be taking place week commencing 14th September 2026. If you are unavailable on these dates let us know and we may be able to schedule an alternative date to interview you. Candidates who meet certain criteria are given priority when we shortlist. See our priority status page for details. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in the delivery of high-quality commissioned services across the Education Division. Working with a wide range of internal and external partners, you will influence service improvement, oversee contractual frameworks and support strategic priorities, while developing your leadership, commissioning and project management skills in a supportive environment. We offer a diverse range of benefits to help and support you during your employment. More information can be found on our benefits page. Vocational Training through Apprenticeships is now available to our staff, ranging from entry level to degree level qualifications. You can talk to the hiring manager and the apprenticeship team about what qualifications would be relevant to you and this job role, and if it is possible to support you in apprenticeship training. 'I’ve worked with the council for over 10 years, and I stay here because I find it really rewarding. I know that I’m making a difference.' - Joe, Information Analyst For an informal discussion about this opportunity contact Emile Tambeh, Commissioning Manager on 07714846385 or email [email protected] For work that makes a difference, choose East Sussex!