Job summary An exciting opportunity has arisen within the South West Primary Care Commissioning Dental Team. We are looking to recruit a Band 8a Commissioning Senior Manager working as part of the Primary Care Commissioning team, within the South West Collaborative Commissioning Hub, which is part of NHS Somerset Integrated Care Board (ICB). The Hub supports the 7 ICBs in the South West region with delivering their delegated responsibilities of commissioning primary care services. The team is responsible for working with ICBs to support the commissioning and contract management of: Primary and Secondary Care Dental Services Community Pharmacy Dispensing Practices Community Opticians The Hub function includes engaging with ICBs and key local system stakeholders, to ensure commissioned services are responsive to evidenced local need and are in-line with national commissioning guides and ICB commissioning priorities. Alongside this work, the team are responsible for supporting ICBs in the transformation of the primary care services listed above. The team also works alongside ICBs to support the transformation programme on General Medical Services (General Practice). If you are you an experienced individual with a relevant background, along with the ability to communicate effectively across a variety of mediums and is someone who works well and effectively in collaboration, we would welcome your application. previous applicants need not apply Main duties of the job The successful applicant will manage a portfolio of dental contracts within the South West and will be responsible for the development of effective working relationships with ICBs, contractors, and a range of partners and stakeholders. With a focus on the commissioning and contracting of dental services, the successful applicant will also: Be responsible for managing a portfolio of primary care contracts working closely with ICBs. Use knowledge of commissioning and contracting to inform effective commissioning of services. Develop effective working relationships between commissioning, information governance, performance management, service development, finance, and clinical governance, to ensure the implications of commissioning decision are appropriately reflected in primary care contracts and agreements. Contribute to the development of service specifications and contribute to the development and redesign of care pathways, to ensure commissioned services provide quality and value for money. The role supports the business in driving transformation as well as value for money in planning and commissioning. The role is designed to build a combination of subject matter expertise and technical skills, and to support a partnership working approach with ICBs. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if sufficient applications are received prior to the advertised closing date. About us NHS Somerset Integrated Care Board (ICB) is responsible for implementing a health and care strategy developed by the Integrated Care Partnership. It consists of approximately 350 staff across 8 directorates, each with multiple teams. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, including underrepresented groups, and are committed to equality of opportunity. We believe diverse organisations best reflect the communities they serve. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if sufficient applications are received before the advertised closing date. Visa sponsorship is not offered. Flexible working is available from day one, including an agile home/office-based approach. However, you will be required travel to other locations for meetings may be necessary. Please consider this before applying. Note for existing NHS Employees applying for Fixed Term vacancies at NHS Somerset If you are an existing NHS Employee and are applying for a Fixed Term role with NHS Somerset, the role will be offered on a secondment basis only. You should gain agreement from your current employer before applying to allow you to be released on secondment. Please ensure the reference section confirms your current HR Department details. Thank you for your interest Date posted 10 January 2025 Pay scheme Agenda for change Band Band 8a Salary £53,755 to £60,504 a year Contract Permanent Working pattern Full-time, Flexible working Reference number D9462-SOMICB42-24 Job locations Taunton South West House Blackbrook Park Avenue Taunton Somerset TA1 2PX Shire Hall Westgate Street Gloucester GL1 2TR Plumer House Tailyour Road Plymouth PL6 5DH Floor 2 North Wing 100 Temple Street Bristol BS1 6AG NHS Somerset ICB Wynford House, Lufton Way Yeovil Somerset BA22 8HR Jenner House, Avon Way, Langley Park, Chippenham SN15 1GG Chy Trevail Beacon Technology Park Bodmin PL31 2FR Job description Job responsibilities Purpose of the role The Primary Care Team works within the South West Collaborative Commissioning Hub, and supports the 7 Integrated Care Board (ICBs) in the South West region with delivering their delegated responsibilities of commissioning primary care services. The team is responsible for working with ICBs to support the commissioning and contract management of: Primary and Secondary Care Dental Services Community Pharmacy Dispensing Practices Community Opticians This includes engaging with key local system stakeholders, to ensure commissioned services are responsive to evidenced local need and are in-line with national commissioning guides and ICB commissioning priorities. Alongside this work, the team are responsible for supporting ICBs in the transformation of the primary care services listed above. The team also works alongside ICBs to support the transformation programme on General Medical Services (General Practice). About the Role This role is focused on the commissioning and contracting of dental services. The role will: Be responsible for managing a portfolio of primary care contracts working closely with ICBs. Use knowledge of commissioning and contracting to inform effective commissioning of services. Enable the delivery of primary care transformation programmes. Develop effective working relationships between commissioning, information governance, performance management, service development, finance, and clinical governance, to ensure the implications of commissioning decision are appropriately reflected in primary care contracts and agreements. Interpret and implement complex national guidance, ensuring local policies and guidelines deliver these as appropriate. Contribute to the development of service specifications and contribute to the development and redesign of care pathways, to ensure commissioned services provide quality and value for money. Manage budgetary implications of activity. Work to avoid destabilisation of business as usual. Manage and actively promote relationships with key stakeholders. As a Primary Care Commissioning Senior Manager, the post holder will work as part of a dynamic team within the South West Collaborative Commissioning Hub, delivering an effective service supporting managers and staff across the Hub, ICBs, and the wider South West. The role supports the business in driving transformation as well as value for money in planning and commissioning. The role is designed to build a combination of subject matter expertise and technical skills, and to support a partnership working approach with ICBs. Key Job Specifics & Responsibilities Improving quality and outcomes To support the delivery of primary care, including identifying needs, contracting, development, assurance and interventions in relation to services. Ensure contract mechanisms are used effectively, to enable the performance management of delivery and to ensure improvements in outcomes and quality. To work collaboratively across the South West Collaborative Commissioning Hub matrix, supporting ICBs with the delivery of their delegated commissioning priorities. Enabling patient and public involvement To act as a champion for patients and their interests and involve the public and patients in policy development and decision-making. To ensure all public and patient contact with the office is of highest professional standard. To embed patient and public involvement within the South West Collaborative Commissioning Hub matrix at all levels in line with statutory duties Promoting equality and reducing inequalities To uphold organisational policies and principles on the promotion of equality. To create an inclusive working environment where diversity is valued, everyone can contribute, and everyday action ensure we meet our duty to uphold and promote equality. Partnership and cross boundary working To work effectively with key stakeholders across the area. To work in partnership with ICBs, PHE, Local Authorities, Regional and National Teams, to the national commissioning framework and arrangements, to secure the provision of high quality and effective health services, To work closely with PHE and ensure public health advice is sought, as appropriate. To develop effective working relationships with partners and ensure the consistent use of policies and procedures. Leadership for transformational change To model a collaborative and influencing style of working, negotiating with others to achieve the best outcomes. Using insight and evidence for improvement To ensure that all local operational arrangements and systems are based on sound evidence of improving services to patients and service sustainability. Developing an excellent organisation To ensure the health, safety, and wellbeing of all staff within the department. To ensure compliance with all confidentiality and governance requirements within the department. To always adhere to the NHS Managers Code of Conduct and any other relevant professional codes of conduct. Key Accountabilities Key Functional Responsibilities Operational To support and oversee team members to deliver requirements listed above and engage and liaise with key stakeholders. To support the delivery of day-to-day activities and projects. To support and manage the team and drive delivery of a range of business initiatives and projects. To operate in a highly political and sensitive environment. Support the portfolio of initiatives in demonstrating value for money for the current spend. To monitor, interpret and quality assure progress against deliverables that often require adjustments specifically in relation to the complex corporate business agenda, strategic objectives and the business planning process. To develop business plans and provide expert strategic and policy advice and guidance on all required areas. Project Management Support the team in the delivery of project plans, allocating tasks as appropriate, identifying risks, issues and dependencies, considering best practice and current options and ultimately making decisions in the best interest of the project. Pro-actively manage stakeholders, respond to, and resolve conflict when this arises through facilitation or other appropriate mechanisms. Be responsible for a high standard of work supporting the delivery of projects on time, to quality standards and in a cost-effective manner. Maintain the project initiation document and associated plans with regular team meetings to monitor progress and resources. Demonstrate effective stakeholder management. Support other project managers as and when required. Consider the impact of any change the projects will have on the business and oversee handover of any products to ensure full ownership and buy-in within the business. Advocate the projects and ensure active engagement and sponsorship within the NHS as a whole. Ensure that the projects maintain business focus, have clear authority and that the context, including risks, is actively managed in alignment with the strategic priorities of the NHS. Financial and Physical Resources Act in a way that is compliant withstanding Orders and Standing Financial Instructions in the discharge of budget management responsibilities, monitor expenditure on a regular basis. Budget holder for assigned function/team, budget setting with the Head of Department. Responsible for ongoing monitoring of expenditure against budget and ensuring the appropriate documentation is available for scrutiny. Ensure effective systems and processes to secure timely primary care contract payments, in-line with national policy/Statement of Financial Entitlement. Identify products, equipment, services, and facilities for assigned activities, achieving stakeholder buy-in as required. Placing orders and signing invoices. Responsible for making recommendations, providing advice and able to prepare strategic reports/briefings for the Head of Department, and relevant forums. People Management Directly manages the team of staff, responsible for day-to-day work assigned to Team. Responsible for recruitment and selection. Responsible for undertaking appraisal and personal development and managing any employee relations issues. Forge close positive working relationships, to support an effective matrix approach to achieve NHS objectives. To support, motivate and develop people within the team. Managing third parties (such as consultants/interims) to ensure deliverables are met in a timely manner and within budget. Information Management Drafting detailed reports summarizing status on issues, appraising outcomes, and providing progress reports for the Head of Department. Collate as required, a range of information and lead appropriate analysis to develop robust business cases and contribute to project products. Analyse, interpret and present data to highlight issues, risks and support decision making. Policy and Service Development Responsible for proposing and drafting changes, implementation and interpretation to policies, guidelines, and service level agreements (SLAs) which may impact service. Proposes changes to own function making recommendations for other service delivery. The post holder will need to maintain a good knowledge of emerging policies from government departments for example pensions, change management, constitution. Job description Job responsibilities Purpose of the role The Primary Care Team works within the South West Collaborative Commissioning Hub, and supports the 7 Integrated Care Board (ICBs) in the South West region with delivering their delegated responsibilities of commissioning primary care services. The team is responsible for working with ICBs to support the commissioning and contract management of: Primary and Secondary Care Dental Services Community Pharmacy Dispensing Practices Community Opticians This includes engaging with key local system stakeholders, to ensure commissioned services are responsive to evidenced local need and are in-line with national commissioning guides and ICB commissioning priorities. Alongside this work, the team are responsible for supporting ICBs in the transformation of the primary care services listed above. The team also works alongside ICBs to support the transformation programme on General Medical Services (General Practice). About the Role This role is focused on the commissioning and contracting of dental services. The role will: Be responsible for managing a portfolio of primary care contracts working closely with ICBs. Use knowledge of commissioning and contracting to inform effective commissioning of services. Enable the delivery of primary care transformation programmes. Develop effective working relationships between commissioning, information governance, performance management, service development, finance, and clinical governance, to ensure the implications of commissioning decision are appropriately reflected in primary care contracts and agreements. Interpret and implement complex national guidance, ensuring local policies and guidelines deliver these as appropriate. Contribute to the development of service specifications and contribute to the development and redesign of care pathways, to ensure commissioned services provide quality and value for money. Manage budgetary implications of activity. Work to avoid destabilisation of business as usual. Manage and actively promote relationships with key stakeholders. As a Primary Care Commissioning Senior Manager, the post holder will work as part of a dynamic team within the South West Collaborative Commissioning Hub, delivering an effective service supporting managers and staff across the Hub, ICBs, and the wider South West. The role supports the business in driving transformation as well as value for money in planning and commissioning. The role is designed to build a combination of subject matter expertise and technical skills, and to support a partnership working approach with ICBs. Key Job Specifics & Responsibilities Improving quality and outcomes To support the delivery of primary care, including identifying needs, contracting, development, assurance and interventions in relation to services. Ensure contract mechanisms are used effectively, to enable the performance management of delivery and to ensure improvements in outcomes and quality. To work collaboratively across the South West Collaborative Commissioning Hub matrix, supporting ICBs with the delivery of their delegated commissioning priorities. Enabling patient and public involvement To act as a champion for patients and their interests and involve the public and patients in policy development and decision-making. To ensure all public and patient contact with the office is of highest professional standard. To embed patient and public involvement within the South West Collaborative Commissioning Hub matrix at all levels in line with statutory duties Promoting equality and reducing inequalities To uphold organisational policies and principles on the promotion of equality. To create an inclusive working environment where diversity is valued, everyone can contribute, and everyday action ensure we meet our duty to uphold and promote equality. Partnership and cross boundary working To work effectively with key stakeholders across the area. To work in partnership with ICBs, PHE, Local Authorities, Regional and National Teams, to the national commissioning framework and arrangements, to secure the provision of high quality and effective health services, To work closely with PHE and ensure public health advice is sought, as appropriate. To develop effective working relationships with partners and ensure the consistent use of policies and procedures. Leadership for transformational change To model a collaborative and influencing style of working, negotiating with others to achieve the best outcomes. Using insight and evidence for improvement To ensure that all local operational arrangements and systems are based on sound evidence of improving services to patients and service sustainability. Developing an excellent organisation To ensure the health, safety, and wellbeing of all staff within the department. To ensure compliance with all confidentiality and governance requirements within the department. To always adhere to the NHS Managers Code of Conduct and any other relevant professional codes of conduct. Key Accountabilities Key Functional Responsibilities Operational To support and oversee team members to deliver requirements listed above and engage and liaise with key stakeholders. To support the delivery of day-to-day activities and projects. To support and manage the team and drive delivery of a range of business initiatives and projects. To operate in a highly political and sensitive environment. Support the portfolio of initiatives in demonstrating value for money for the current spend. To monitor, interpret and quality assure progress against deliverables that often require adjustments specifically in relation to the complex corporate business agenda, strategic objectives and the business planning process. To develop business plans and provide expert strategic and policy advice and guidance on all required areas. Project Management Support the team in the delivery of project plans, allocating tasks as appropriate, identifying risks, issues and dependencies, considering best practice and current options and ultimately making decisions in the best interest of the project. Pro-actively manage stakeholders, respond to, and resolve conflict when this arises through facilitation or other appropriate mechanisms. Be responsible for a high standard of work supporting the delivery of projects on time, to quality standards and in a cost-effective manner. Maintain the project initiation document and associated plans with regular team meetings to monitor progress and resources. Demonstrate effective stakeholder management. Support other project managers as and when required. Consider the impact of any change the projects will have on the business and oversee handover of any products to ensure full ownership and buy-in within the business. Advocate the projects and ensure active engagement and sponsorship within the NHS as a whole. Ensure that the projects maintain business focus, have clear authority and that the context, including risks, is actively managed in alignment with the strategic priorities of the NHS. Financial and Physical Resources Act in a way that is compliant withstanding Orders and Standing Financial Instructions in the discharge of budget management responsibilities, monitor expenditure on a regular basis. Budget holder for assigned function/team, budget setting with the Head of Department. Responsible for ongoing monitoring of expenditure against budget and ensuring the appropriate documentation is available for scrutiny. Ensure effective systems and processes to secure timely primary care contract payments, in-line with national policy/Statement of Financial Entitlement. Identify products, equipment, services, and facilities for assigned activities, achieving stakeholder buy-in as required. Placing orders and signing invoices. Responsible for making recommendations, providing advice and able to prepare strategic reports/briefings for the Head of Department, and relevant forums. People Management Directly manages the team of staff, responsible for day-to-day work assigned to Team. Responsible for recruitment and selection. Responsible for undertaking appraisal and personal development and managing any employee relations issues. Forge close positive working relationships, to support an effective matrix approach to achieve NHS objectives. To support, motivate and develop people within the team. Managing third parties (such as consultants/interims) to ensure deliverables are met in a timely manner and within budget. Information Management Drafting detailed reports summarizing status on issues, appraising outcomes, and providing progress reports for the Head of Department. Collate as required, a range of information and lead appropriate analysis to develop robust business cases and contribute to project products. Analyse, interpret and present data to highlight issues, risks and support decision making. Policy and Service Development Responsible for proposing and drafting changes, implementation and interpretation to policies, guidelines, and service level agreements (SLAs) which may impact service. Proposes changes to own function making recommendations for other service delivery. The post holder will need to maintain a good knowledge of emerging policies from government departments for example pensions, change management, constitution. Person Specification Qualifications Essential Educated to masters level or equivalent level of experience of working at a senior level in the primary care commissioning and transformation area. Evidence of Continued Professional Development (CPD) Personal Statement / Motivation for Applying Essential Please use this section to explain how you meet the additional criteria in the Personal Specification including your reasons and motivation for applying. Experience Essential Must be able to provide and receive highly complex, sensitive or contentious information, negotiate with senior stakeholders on difficult and controversial issues, and present complex and sensitive information to large and influential groups. Ability to negotiate on difficult and controversial issues including performance and change. Ability to analyse complex facts and situations and develop a range of options Ability to make decisions autonomously, when required, on difficult and contentious issues where there may be several courses of action, working to tight and often changing timescales. Demonstrates a strong desire to improve performance and make a difference by focusing on goals. Must be able to prioritise own work effectively and be able to direct activities of others. Must be able to use initiative to decide relevant actions and make recommendations with the aim of improving deliverables and compliance to policies. Knowledge and Skills Essential Extensive knowledge of primary care commissioning and transformation areas acquired through post graduate diploma or equivalent experience or training plus further specialist knowledge or experience to masters level equivalent. Evidence of post qualifying and continuing professional development. Comprehensive experience of project principles techniques and tools such as Prince 2 and Managing Successful Projects. Understand the background to and aims of current healthcare policy and appreciate the implications of this on engagement. Experience of managing and motivating a team/virtual team and reviewing performance of the individuals. Experience of identifying and interpreting national policy. Have an appreciation of the relationship between the Department of Health and individual provider and commissioning organisations. Desirable Member of relevant professional body. Person Specification Qualifications Essential Educated to masters level or equivalent level of experience of working at a senior level in the primary care commissioning and transformation area. Evidence of Continued Professional Development (CPD) Personal Statement / Motivation for Applying Essential Please use this section to explain how you meet the additional criteria in the Personal Specification including your reasons and motivation for applying. Experience Essential Must be able to provide and receive highly complex, sensitive or contentious information, negotiate with senior stakeholders on difficult and controversial issues, and present complex and sensitive information to large and influential groups. Ability to negotiate on difficult and controversial issues including performance and change. Ability to analyse complex facts and situations and develop a range of options Ability to make decisions autonomously, when required, on difficult and contentious issues where there may be several courses of action, working to tight and often changing timescales. Demonstrates a strong desire to improve performance and make a difference by focusing on goals. Must be able to prioritise own work effectively and be able to direct activities of others. Must be able to use initiative to decide relevant actions and make recommendations with the aim of improving deliverables and compliance to policies. Knowledge and Skills Essential Extensive knowledge of primary care commissioning and transformation areas acquired through post graduate diploma or equivalent experience or training plus further specialist knowledge or experience to masters level equivalent. Evidence of post qualifying and continuing professional development. Comprehensive experience of project principles techniques and tools such as Prince 2 and Managing Successful Projects. Understand the background to and aims of current healthcare policy and appreciate the implications of this on engagement. Experience of managing and motivating a team/virtual team and reviewing performance of the individuals. Experience of identifying and interpreting national policy. Have an appreciation of the relationship between the Department of Health and individual provider and commissioning organisations. Desirable Member of relevant professional body. Employer details Employer name NHS Somerset Integrated Care Board Address Taunton South West House Blackbrook Park Avenue Taunton Somerset TA1 2PX Employer's website https://nhssomerset.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)