We are seeking an experienced and strategic leader to take on the newly created role of Service Manager – Education Commissioning.
This is a unique opportunity to shape and lead education commissioning across the city, ensuring children and young people have access to high-quality, sustainable and effective educational provision. You’ll play a pivotal role in meeting statutory responsibilities, improving outcomes and driving value for money across the education system.
This is a full time 37 hour role; however, part‑time 4 days or more would be considered for the right candidate.
About the Role
Working closely with education providers, schools, trusts, regional partners and internal stakeholders, you will help ensure the sufficiency, quality and long‑term sustainability of education provision across Portsmouth.
- Leading the full commissioning cycle, from needs assessment and market engagement through to procurement, contract management and performance review.
- Developing commissioning strategies that support statutory duties, SEND priorities and sufficiency planning.
- Shaping the local education market to increase capacity, improve quality and reduce reliance on expensive out‑of‑area provision.
- Managing high‑value contracts and commissioning budgets.
- Establishing quality assurance and performance frameworks that improve outcomes and maintain high safeguarding standards.
- Providing expert advice to senior leaders and representing the council at strategic meetings and partnership forums.
- Leading and developing a new commissioning team, promoting a culture of accountability, innovation and continuous improvement.
The Ideal Candidate
We are looking for a highly capable professional with significant experience in commissioning, service leadership or strategic programme management within a complex public‑sector environment.
- Strong knowledge of education systems, particularly SEND and alternative provision.
- Experience of commissioning, procurement, contract management and service improvement.
- A track record of managing significant budgets and high‑value contracts.
- The ability to influence senior stakeholders and lead complex system‑wide change.
- Excellent analytical, communication and negotiation skills.
- A collaborative leadership style and a strong commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people.
Experience of education, SEND or alternative provision commissioning would be advantageous.
Working Arrangements
You will be required to work a minimum of 2 days in the office each week, with the option to work remotely 1–2 days per week.
You will need to demonstrate that you have the Right to Work in the UK. No post will be offered without it.
Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) at Standard/Enhanced level will be required prior to any offer of employment and this post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
We are a disability confident employer and a gold standard Armed Forces Covenant employer.
We are an equal opportunity employer.
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