Interim Commissioning Project Manager – New Builds, Acquisitions & Closures
Salary: £70,000 Pro Rata
Location: On-site at project locations and Head Office
Reporting to: Managing Director
Pattern: 3 days a week (6 month interim contract with option to progress into another management role)
Purpose of the Role: Lead the commissioning, mobilisation, integration, and decommissioning of social care services in Avante, ensuring safe, high-quality, and financially sustainable delivery across new builds, acquisitions, and service closures. The role will drive effective service transitions while amplifying the voice of frontline colleagues and people who use services.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the end-to-end commissioning cycle, including needs analysis, service design, procurement, mobilisation, and review.
* Oversee the successful delivery of new service openings, including mobilisation, staffing models, and operational readiness.
* Manage the integration of acquired services, including due diligence, TUPE coordination, cultural alignment, and quality stabilisation.
* Lead the safe and compliant closure of services, ensuring person-centred transitions and effective stakeholder engagement.
* Develop and manage project plans, risks, budgets, and timelines across multiple programmes.
* Build and maintain strong relationships with providers, local authorities, NHS partners, and internal stakeholders.
* Ensure all services meet regulatory and quality standards, including CQC requirements.
* Produce business cases, reports, and strategic recommendations for senior leadership.
* Monitor performance, outcomes, and financial viability of commissioned services.
* Use insight, including frontline feedback, to inform service improvements and commissioning decisions.
* Lead relevant project meetings and attend leadership meetings to update stakeholders on progress.
* Champion Avante’s policies and internal operating procedures.
* Model inclusive practice throughout day-to-day practice and project approach.
Essential Criteria
Qualifications
* Level 5 or Degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant field (health, social care, business, or housing).
* Project or programme management qualification (e.g., PRINCE2) (Desirable).
Experience
* Significant experience in commissioning, service development, or transformation within adult social care, particularly residential, dementia, and nursing care.
* Proven track record of delivering complex projects, including new builds, acquisitions, or service closures.
* Experience of managing contracts, providers, and multi-stakeholder environments.
* Evidence of demonstrating Avante’s SPARKLE qualities.
* Experience working on capital developments or property-related projects.
Knowledge
* Strong understanding of social care legislation (e.g., Care Act), safeguarding, and regulatory frameworks.
* Knowledge of CQC standards and compliance requirements.
* Understanding of the adult social care market and commissioning best practice.
Skills
* Strong programme and project management skills.
* Excellent stakeholder engagement and influencing ability.
* Commercial and financial awareness.
* Ability to manage risk and make decisions in complex, sensitive environments.
* Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Qualities
* Strategic thinking and problem solving.
* Leadership and accountability.
* Resilience and sound judgement.
* Collaboration and relationship-driven approach.
* Commitment to quality and continuous improvement.
* Ability to visit Avante sites.
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