Orchard Care Homes is looking for an experienced Head of Commissioning Operations to lead operational delivery, drive service excellence, and support the development of new, innovative service models within the ReConnect portfolio.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the operational strategy for ReConnect services, ensuring alignment with organisational goals.
* Build strong partnerships with local authorities, ICBs, NHS partners, commissioning bodies, families, professionals, and internal teams.
* Lead tender activity and new commissioning opportunities.
* Lead the mobilisation and development for new services and contracts.
* Embed positive behaviour support, risk management, and person-centred planning.
* Coach, develop, and support Registered Managers, Service Leads, and operational teams.
* Ensure services meet and exceed compliance with CQC regulations, quality frameworks, and contractual KPIs.
* Lead, support, and performance‑manage staff to deliver high-quality care.
* Oversee operational budgets, rotas, resources, occupancy and performance KPIs / targets.
Role Requirements
* A Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care (or willingness to work towards).
* Confident, forward‑thinking operational leader who balances strategic vision with hands‑on delivery.
* Resilient, values‑led, with a strong background in complex residential care.
* Proven senior operational leadership experience in health or social care managing residential services for people with complex needs.
* Experience working with commissioned services (Local Authority and NHS pathways).
* Strong knowledge of CQC regulations, regulatory frameworks and health & social care legislation.
* Experience in specialist service mobilisation, commissioning discussions, and/or contract management.
* Solid understanding of positive behaviour support and risk management.
* Excellent leadership, communication, relationship‑building and staff management skills.
* Ability to remain calm, professional, and decisive in challenging situations.
* Financial acumen and experience managing operational budgets.
* Able to lead change, drive improvement, and support service transformation.
* Highly organised with strong data‑driven decision‑making skills.
* Flexibility to meet the needs of the service and support core operational teams if required.
* Willingness to travel.
The successful candidate will be required to take part in an on‑call rota to support operational needs, approximately one weekend per year.
Benefits
* Salary: Competitive – dependent on experience.
* Company‑supported pension scheme.
* Fully funded DBS check.
* Career development from day one, with clear progression pathways.
* Hundreds of colleague discounts across shopping, holidays, dining, tech via the Blue Light Card.
* Excellent employee recognition schemes such as a ‘Making a Difference’ award, Long Service Awards and referral bonuses.
* Free emotional, practical and financial support that’s fully confidential via an Employee Assistance Programme helpline and wellbeing app available 24/7, all year round.
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