Commissioning Specialist - SEND

Job Introduction

Commissioning Specialist - SEND

37 hours

Grade PO12 - £49,282 - £52,413

About the role:

At Telford & Wrekin Council we are committed to improving outcomes for children and young people and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive.

We are looking for an experienced and highly motivated SEND Commissioner to lead the strategic commissioning and development of services for children and young people aged 0–25 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

This is a key role, responsible for ensuring high-quality, inclusive and cost-effective provision that meets both local need and statutory requirements.

In this role, you will lead the Local Authority’s commissioning of SEND services across education, health, and care, with a particular focus on health-related provision and integrated, system-wide delivery.

You will:

• Lead and coordinate commissioning across targeted, targeted plus and specialist provision
• Commission a wide range of services including therapies (e.g. SALT, OT, physiotherapy), mental health support and specialist provision
• Develop and implement commissioning strategies aligned to local priorities, including the SEND JSNA and Local Inclusion Plan
• Shape and manage the provider market, ensuring sufficiency, quality and value for money
• Monitor service performance, outcomes and impact, using data to identify gaps and drive improvement
• Lead partnership working with key stakeholders including ICBs, NHS providers, schools and voluntary sector partners
• Provide expert advice to senior leaders, boards and partners, influencing policy and system development
• Champion co-production with children, young people and families
• Ensure compliance with statutory requirements, including the SEND Code of Practice and Children and Families Act 2014

You will play a central role in ensuring that services are responsive, sustainable and deliver improved outcomes for children, young people and their families.

Key Requirements

We are looking for someone who can operate confidently at a strategic level and bring strong commissioning expertise within a complex system.

You will:

• Have significant experience of commissioning, ideally within SEND or children’s services
• Have a strong understanding of SEND legislation, EHCP processes and partnership working
• Be experienced in managing budgets, contracts and provider performance
• Demonstrate excellent communication, negotiation and analytical skills
• Be able to analyse complex information and translate this into effective strategies and solutions
• Have strong leadership, organisational and problem-solving skills
• Be committed to inclusion, co-production and improving outcomes for children and young people

A degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field is essential, with postgraduate or commissioning-related qualifications desirable

Selection Process
As part of the recruitment process, candidates will be required to deliver a 5 minute presentation on the opportunities and challenges associated with SEND joint commissioning.

Why Telford & Wrekin?

We’re incredibly proud to be rated Outstanding by Ofsted—and remain the only authority in the West Midlands to have achieved this twice.

Our April 2024 Ofsted inspection highlighted:

• “Exceptional social work practice”
• “Participation is a real strength”
• “Care leavers benefit from a generous local offer”
• “Staff feel valued and supported by visible senior leaders”

Join us and be part of a service where high-quality practice, strong leadership, and positive outcomes for children and young people are at the heart of everything we do.

Please click on the links below to view the job description and person specification.

A CV template is available if you do not already have a CV.

We believe great services start with great people — and that means building a workforce that reflects our community. At Telford & Wrekin Council, everyone belongs, and every voice matters.

What we offer:

• We offer competitive salaries and a fantastic leave package — starting at 24 days, rising to 32 days with service, plus 8 bank holidays and an extra concessionary day to enjoy.
• Flexible working & career progression
• Local Government Pension Scheme
• Staff discounts & salary sacrifice perks
• Free parking & confidential wellbeing support
• Hybrid working model - whether you're in the office or working from home, we support a balance that fits your personal and family commitments.

For further information on the role please click on the links below to view the job description and person specification. Additionally, if you would like to find out more about this role contact Head Of Service Paul Grocutt on 01952 380757 or email paul.grocutt@telford.gov.uk

It is our intention to hold interviews for successful candidates on or week commencing Monday 13th July 2026.

Find out further information about working at Telford & Wrekin Council including our full list of benefits.

Roles involving children or vulnerable adults will require a criminal records check. It’s an offence to apply if you’re barred from working with these groups.

Please note: We do not hold a sponsorship licence for visas.