Contracts and Compliance Lead Officer, Southend-on-Sea
Southend-on-Sea City Council is a unitary local authority providing vital services to meet the needs of the community. We employ around 1,800 staff who work alongside our partners and local communities to deliver the city vision and improve lives. Working for Southend-on-Sea City Council offers a challenging and rewarding career in local government within a collaborative and innovative environment, with flexible working practices to support work-life balance.
As a Unitary Authority, we are responsible for all local government functions, including social services, transport, public health, parks, planning, trading standards, community safety, and education. We offer a wide range of career opportunities. The diversity of our economy and communities, along with investment in regeneration projects, makes our Council a great place to work, learn, and make a difference.
Your new role
We are seeking a Contracts and Compliance Lead Officer to join the education transport team on a full-time, permanent basis. The role is based within a newly established team and offers flexible, hybrid working (a combination of home and office work).
As a Contracts and Compliance Lead Officer, you will support the Home to School Transport service, ensuring it meets the needs of students and families. Responsibilities include developing and implementing policies, managing budgets, working with contractors, resolving complex cases, leading contractor meetings, and representing the Council at local and regional events.
You will analyze and resolve issues related to non-compliance with contracts and Service Level Agreements, handle concerns raised by service users, relatives, or professionals, and provide excellent customer service while achieving business goals. You will manage customer complaints, analyze contractual KPI reports, produce reports with recommendations, and present findings to senior management.
You will attend and lead contractor meetings, ensure minutes are accurately taken and followed up, and support in all appeal matters. The role will be predominantly field and office-based due to its nature, despite the hybrid working arrangement.
What you'll need to succeed
To succeed, you must have previous experience negotiating with third parties, contractors, and service providers. A good understanding of monitoring, service quality, and service adjustments is essential. Familiarity with approaches to contract compliance is required. Experience in contract management, compliance, transport, or facilities is essential.
Your application will not be considered unless you have one of the following:
* GCC Contract Management qualification/training at the foundation level
* Working towards such qualification
* Significant contract management knowledge and willingness to obtain qualifications
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