Commercial Manager - Social Care - Tendering

Job Overview: This forward thinking modern London Borough Council is seeking an experienced Commercial Manager to lead high-value, complex, and innovative tender processes. This role supports the Council's Procurement Service, which plays a crucial part in delivering value-driven services that meet the needs of the local community. The successful candidate will demonstrate a high degree of commercial awareness and technical expertise, particularly in Social Care. As a key member of the Coun team, you will help shape the council’s ambitious goals through a commitment to openness, diversity, and innovation. Your role will involve close collaboration with commissioners, senior managers, and other key stakeholders to ensure successful contract awards and compliance with all legal and council requirements. Key Responsibilities: * Lead high-value/high-risk tenders from initiation to contract mobilisation, including projects over £20m. * Provide expert advice to commissioners and budget holders throughout the tender process. * Ensure procurement strategies support sustainability and social value. * Collaborate with legal and subject matter experts to develop contract terms, KPIs, and specifications. * Secure operational improvements and efficiency through effective procurement processes. * Develop and manage evaluation models to achieve the best outcomes and value for money. * Manage risk, including assessing the financial robustness of bidders. * Support tender mobilisation prior to handover, ensuring smooth implementation. * Stay updated on policy, best practices, and legislative changes. Skills and Experience Required: * Experience delivering procurement within a Social Care category for a Local Authority. * Proven ability to manage high-value, complex tenders in compliance with PCR regulations. * Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including report writing. * Strong financial literacy and commercial acumen, with the ability to analyse data and influence outcomes. * Experience working in a structured or project-based environment, managing multiple projects at once. * CIPS Level 5/6 (or equivalent) qualification preferred, or relevant experience. Additional Information: * Budget Responsibilities: No direct budgetary responsibility but will manage tenders with high financial value (above £100k, up to £20m or more). * Team Management: Line management of 1-2 direct reports, working within a matrix style to coordinate with other stakeholders and support services. * Work Style:Hybrid - 1 day per week on site