2 months contract with a local authority

Summary

Following increased investment and internal restructuring, the council is seeking an experienced interim Children Placement & Quality Assurance Manager to lead the development of a new commissioning function. This role is critical in shaping placement strategies, improving quality assurance, and supporting the integration of Independent Non-Maintained Special School (INMSS) placements. The successful candidate will play a key role in building relationships across social care, education, providers, and council departments.

Responsibilities

Establish and lead a new Children’s Placement Commissioning function, including supplier relationships, brokerage, contract management, and quality assurance.
Develop an operational model to meet SEND placement needs, ensuring alignment with statutory requirements and best practices.
Create and implement a robust Quality Assurance framework across Children’s Social Care and SEND placements.
Support the development of sufficiency strategies to ensure appropriate and cost-effective placement availability.
Contribute to the Strategic Placement Board, providing insight into placement usage, cost, and impact on children’s outcomes.
Establish reporting mechanisms and promote a data-driven approach to commissioning and placement decisions.
Collaborate effectively with social workers, managers, providers, and wider council teams to ensure seamless service delivery.

Essential Experience

Proven experience in Children’s placement commissioning, including SEND and social care settings.
Strong background in contract management, brokerage, and supplier engagement.
Experience developing and implementing quality assurance frameworks.
Familiarity with sufficiency planning and strategic board engagement.
Ability to build relationships quickly and work collaboratively across multi-disciplinary teams.
Experience or insight into integrating INMSS placements into local authority commissioning structures is highly desirable.

Essential Qualifications

Degree-level qualification in Social Work, Public Sector Management, or a related field.
Relevant professional registration (e.g., Social Work England) is advantageous.
Project management or commissioning-related certifications are a plus.

Additional Information

Children Placements and Quality Assurance Manager