Children’s Interim Commissioning ManagerInterim / Temporary – Inside IR35
Location: Merseyside (Hybrid – minimum 2 days onsite per week)
Start Date: 3 March 2026
Duration: 12 weeks (initial)
Hours: 35 per week
Rate:
*PAYE: £50.89 per hour
*Umbrella/Ltd: £67.18 per hour
Ribble Recruitment is supporting a large local authority in the North West to appoint an experienced Children’s Interim Commissioning Manager on a business-critical interim basis.
This role sits within Children & Young People’s Services, with a strong focus on commissioning, contract management, and performance oversight across a range of children’s services.
The RoleYou will be responsible for commissioning and managing a portfolio of contracts across Children’s and Young People’s Services, ensuring high-quality delivery, robust performance monitoring, and value for money. The post requires close collaboration with internal stakeholders including procurement, legal, finance, education, health, and social care.
Key Responsibilities*Commission services that meet the needs of children, young people, and families, working closely with partner agencies
*Manage and monitor contracts to ensure delivery against agreed objectives, KPIs, quality standards, and budgets
*Work collaboratively with procurement, legal, and finance to ensure compliance with financial regulations, contract standing orders, and procurement rules
*Contribute to the development and delivery of the Commissioning and Sufficiency Strategy
*Lead improvement projects focused on service quality, efficiency, and value for money
*Produce clear management reports highlighting performance, risks, and mitigation actions
*Maintain effective stakeholder relationships and promote best practice in commissioning and contract management
*Ensure confidentiality and compliance with data protection and freedom of information requirements
Essential Skills & Experience*Proven track record of commissioning within Children’s Services
*Experience commissioning education-related services (e.g. Alternative Provision) is highly desirable
*Strong experience in contract management, financial monitoring, and performance management
*Demonstrable experience working strategically with procurement and ensuring compliance with governance frameworks
*Excellent reporting, data analysis, and stakeholder management skills
*Experience working in a fast-paced, performance-driven environment
*Degree or equivalent professional experience
*Ability to attend the office a minimum of 2 days per week