Description Salary: £75,312 - £87,033 per annum (pro rata if part-time) Grade: I Contract Type: Permanent Working Hours: 37 hours per week We are seeking an experienced, forward‑thinking Head of Children’s Commissioning to lead our commissioning function at a crucial and exciting point in our journey. As a council, we are undertaking a strategic review of our commissioning arrangements to ensure they are fit for the future, aligned with the needs of our communities as we become an Enabling Council. This review presents a unique opportunity to shape the way we work, strengthen our approach, and embed a commissioning model that is sustainable, consistent innovative, and outcome‑focused. During this period of change: we are committed to delivering high‑quality, safe, and effective commissioned services for our children, young people, and families. Your leadership will be central to ensuring we continue to meet this commitment. About the Role In this senior leadership position, you will: Lead and develop the Children’s Commissioning team through a period of transformation. Drive strategic commissioning across early help, social care, SEND, placements, and wider children’s services. Build productive partnerships with providers, stakeholders, and system leaders. Ensure best value, strong quality assurance, and positive outcomes for children and young people. Contribute to strategic decision‑making across the directorate and wider council. Contribute to our decisions about, and delivery of, our future commissioning arrangements. About You We are looking for someone who: Brings significant experience in commissioning for children’s services. Can operate confidently at a strategic level while maintaining a strong grasp of operational realities. Has the resilience, creativity, and leadership skills to guide teams through change. Is motivated by improving the lives of children and young people. Works collaboratively and builds strong relationships in complex systems. Why Join Us? This is a rare opportunity to lead meaningful change, shape a new commissioning landscape, and make a profound difference for children and young people in our community. You will join a council that is committed, ambitious, and determined to deliver the highest standards of care and support. DBS Check: Basic (DBS) check is required for this post. Closing Date (Redeployment Only): 19.03.2026 Closing Date (Internal & External): 06.04.2026 Interview Date: 22.04.2026 If you have any questions about the role or interview process, please contact: Michele Lucas - mlucas@thurrock.gov.uk To view the Job Profile and Person Specification, please follow the link below: Download JD If the Job Profile and Person Specification list any qualifications as essential, please also upload copies of those relevant qualifications.