Who You Are This role requires an experienced Placements Officer with a background in working with a Placements Team, specifically dealing with external placements for children up to 18 years of age. You should have a keen understanding of the complex needs of Looked After Children and possess excellent organizational skills to manage a diverse workload effectively. Experience in partnership working and contract monitoring will be essential to succeed in this role. A proactive attitude, coupled with sensitivity and confidentiality, is crucial as you navigate the complex landscape of placement solutions in collaboration with external providers. What the Job Involves As a Placements Officer within the Access to Resources Integrated Service, you will be responsible for commissioning a variety of external care placements for Looked After Children. You will ensure value for money, negotiate costs for individual and volume agreements, and manage the provider market to fulfill the evolving needs of clients. Your role will also involve ensuring the right contract frameworks are in place, advising social workers on placement options, safeguarding children in external placements, and supporting the Team Manager in achieving the Council’s objectives. This position requires collaboration with partners across Health, Education, and other sectors to coordinate joint planning and funding solutions, all while maintaining placement stability and minimizing disruptions. Skills Knowledge of Looked After Children’s complex needs Excellent organizational skills Experience in partnership working Contract monitoring and performance management Market management experience Understanding of emergency response and workload management