Head of Commissioning - Education and SEND

Overview

Lead the future of Education and SEND commissioning in one of the UK’s most forward-thinking councils.Cornwall Council is nationally recognised for innovative, integrated commissioning — built on strong partnerships across health, education, and social care. We’re developing a professional commissioning discipline that blends best practice, robust evidence, and co-design with communities, creating an environment where commissioners can thrive and make a measurable difference.As our Head of Education and SEND Commissioning, you’ll set the standard for excellence across three critical areas:Children with DisabilitiesSpecial Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)Home to School TransportThese services directly influence inclusion, wellbeing, and long-term life chances for children and young people in Cornwall. This is more than a leadership role — it’s your chance to build a team, shape the market, and make Cornwall an exemplar in children’s commissioning nationally.Your ImpactYou will be the strategic commissioning lead for these areas — defining what good looks like, setting the long-term vision, and ensuring outcomes are delivered. You’ll be a visible ambassador for what matters most, influencing senior decision-makers, making a compelling case for change, and driving innovation at scale.In This Role, You WillLead the medium-to-long-term strategy for education and SEND commissioning.Shape and sustain the marketplace to ensure quality, sufficiency, and sustainability.Drive large-scale transformation and major programmes of change.Align and optimise resources across education, health, social care, and transport.Embed savings and efficiencies through strong commissioning and contract management.Act as accountable lead for pooled budgets and joint commissioning arrangements.About YouWe’re looking for someone who combines strategic vision with delivery excellence. You’ll bring:Significant senior-level commissioning experience — ideally in education, SEND, or children’s services (transferable experience considered).A track record in market shaping, transformation, and delivering large-scale change.The ability to influence at the highest levels, backed by curiosity, evidence-led thinking, and the courage to focus on what matters most.Why Join UsThis is a rare opportunity to shape the future of education and SEND in a council known for innovation, strong partnerships, and delivering real impact. You’ll join a high-performing team with the resources, support, and political commitment to deliver ambitious change.We OfferFlexible hybrid workingGenerous annual leave, with the option to purchase additional daysMembership of the Local Government Pension SchemeA nationally recognised employee wellbeing programmeAccess to a wide range of discounts on goods and servicesRelocation support, if applicableThe chance to lead work that transforms lives — and sets a national benchmarkApply now and help us deliver the next chapter in Cornwall’s commissioning excellence.Additional InformationCornwall Council is unable to offer visa sponsorship or transfer existing sponsorship for this role.The full generic role profile for Head of Commissioning roles is attached here.For more information or an informal chat about the role please contact careers@cornwall.gov.ukAbout UsCornwall Council delivers services to more than half a million local people and over five million visitors a year. We are happy to talk about flexible working options such as part-time or compressed hours. More examples of our flexible working opportunities can be found here - flexible working options.Fairness and inclusion are at the heart of our vision for Cornwall. We are an equal opportunities and Disability Confident employer, and we will assess applicants on their merits.Cornwall Council is committed to safeguarding and following safer recruitment principles to help make sure our staff and volunteers are suitable to work with children, young people and adults at risk. It’s a vital part of creating a safe and positive environment and making a commitment to keeping all service users safe from harm.We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of ..... full job details .....