Early applications are encouraged as we may close the advert ahead of the stated closing date. Joining our School Transport Service as a Compliance and Schools Liaison Officer, you will play a critical role in ensuring the safe and contractually compliant delivery of our transport provision. Supporting the safe daily travel of more than 14,000 students across 2,800 active contracts, including many children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), you will help ensure services are delivered safely, efficiently, safely, and in line with safeguarding and contractual obligations. Acting as a key link between the Council, education settings, suppliers, and internal teams, you will help strengthen compliance, drive supplier engagement, and support continuous improvement across the Service. With this scale of responsibility, you will be central to maintaining operational excellence, robust safeguarding standards, and cost effective transport delivery. What you’ll do: • Plan and deliver a programme of contract audits to ensure operators meet all contractual obligations. • Produce clear reports and recommendations based on audit findings. • Identify and report on contractual or financial inefficiencies, including unnecessary charges or duplicated routes. • Undertake operational compliance audits across the service, promoting a robust risk assessment culture. • Conduct investigations into tendering activity and safety assessment processes. • Lead regular compliance visits to schools and education settings. • Deliver enhanced onboarding and support for School Transport suppliers to reinforce compliance expectations. • Support wider strategic and service improvement initiatives as required. What we’re looking for: • Experience in contract compliance, auditing, or service delivery. • Strong stakeholder management skills and the confidence to engage at all levels. • Commitment to understanding SEND and safeguarding principles. • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, able to liaise effectively with stakeholders at all levels. • Ability to analyse data, identify trends, and spot discrepancies in service delivery. • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and confidence conducting desktop audits and reporting. • Highly organised, able to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines. • Assertive and directive when required, with a focus on ensuring safe and compliant services. Why join us: • Play a key role in ensuring safe, high-quality transport services for children and young people across Hampshire. • Work as part of a supportive team committed to operational excellence and continuous improvement. • Gain valuable experience in compliance, contract management, safeguarding, and service auditing. • Access to Health Assured's comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme to support your physical and mental wellbeing, including 24/7 telephone support, a suite of online resources, and legal and financial advice. • A competitive benefits package that includes generous annual leave entitlement, occupational sick pay, and access to the Local Government Pension Scheme. To learn more about this role, please review our Candidate Pack available on our website. Please click on the Apply button for details. Applicants can expect to hear from us within two weeks of the advertised closing date. Please note: We are unable to offer sponsorship for this role and therefore it is essential that you already have the right to work in the UK before applying. Other roles you may have experience of may include: School Transport Compliance Officer, Contract Compliance Officer, Service Compliance Officer, Schools Liaison Officer – Transport, Transport Partnerships and Liaison Officer, Transport Compliance and Engagement Officer, Compliance and Provider Liaison Officer, Transport Quality and Standards Officer, School Transport Standards Officer