Senior Commissioning Manager (Substance Misuse) – AR

Job Details

Job Title: Senior Commissioning Manager (Substance Misuse)

Organisation: London Borough of Tower Hamlets
Directorate: Health, Adults & Communities
Contract: Fixed Term (approx. 3 months)

Job Purpose

To provide senior leadership across the Substance Misuse Commissioning function, supporting both the day-to-day management and improvement of existing services and the design and delivery of a new service model. The role will lead key elements of a major re-commissioning programme, including service redesign, stakeholder engagement and preparation for procurement.

Key Responsibilities

Service Transformation & Commissioning

  • Lead the redesign and development of substance misuse services, including treatment, recovery and outreach
  • Translate strategic priorities into detailed service models and specifications
  • Ensure services are evidence-based, cost-effective and outcome-focused

Procurement & Contract Management

  • Develop service specifications, tender documentation and procurement plans
  • Lead commissioning and re-commissioning activity in line with council and NHS requirements
  • Oversee contract performance, quality and value for money, addressing underperformance where required

System Leadership & Strategy

  • Support delivery of joint commissioning strategies across the Council and NHS partners
  • Contribute to system-wide transformation and integrated care objectives
  • Deputise for senior leadership as required

Stakeholder Engagement & Partnership Working

  • Engage a wide range of stakeholders including NHS partners, providers, service users and community groups
  • Lead consultation and co-production activity to inform service design
  • Act as a key link between commissioning, providers and partnership boards

Financial & Performance Management

  • Manage and monitor high-value budgets, ensuring effective use of resources
  • Provide oversight of performance, demand and outcomes
  • Ensure commissioning decisions are informed by data, needs analysis and market intelligence

Leadership & Delivery

  • Provide leadership to commissioning and project staff
  • Lead complex projects and programmes to deliver service improvements at pace
  • Support organisational change and continuous improvement

Person Specification (Summary)

  • Significant experience in health and/or social care commissioning, ideally including substance misuse
  • Strong track record in service redesign, procurement and contract management
  • Experience working across local authority, NHS and voluntary sector partnerships
  • Proven ability to lead teams, manage budgets and deliver complex programmes
  • Excellent stakeholder engagement, analytical and communication skills

Overview

This is a high-impact, senior interim role suited to an experienced commissioner who can quickly assess systems, lead transformation, and deliver a complex re-commissioning programme within a fast-paced, partnership environment.