Date: 31 Jul 2026
Location: Taunton, GB, TA1 4DY
#job-location.job-location-inline { display: inline; }
Company: Somerset Council
Senior Commissioning Officer
Closing date: 16/08/2026
Salary: £41,771 to £46,142 per annum.
Role summary
You’ll be playing a key role within the Adults and Health directorate by leading and managing the full commissioning cycle.
You’ll be working close with the service manager and the wider service, while also collaborating with stakeholders both internally and externally. You’ll be developing and delivering commissioning work programmes that are aligned to strategic objectives, turning these strategic priorities into effective service design.
This will include specifying service requirements, overseeing procurements processes, and ensuring successful mobilisation of services. You will be gathering and analysing qualitative and quantitative evidence and evaluating service effectiveness to inform robust, evidence-based decision making.
Your work in this role will help to ensure high-quality, sustainable services that meet the current and future needs of the community and the people we support across Somerset.
This is a significant role within our service with lots of varied responsibilities. If you think you meet the skills and background required, then we would love to hear from you!
What you’ll do - key responsibilities
Analysis – Gather qualitative and quantitative evidence, understand market trends, and evaluate the effectiveness of existing or alternative services.
Design – Specify the scope of the services required, set the area of commission, define outcomes. Design work programmes to meet the range of service objectives.
Prepare – Work with staff and providers to ensure that the right services are available to meet current and future needs.
Implement – Ensure that the right service is in place and that outcomes can be met. Oversee the mobilisation of the service and ensure that appropriate Service Level Agreements are in place.
Manage – Ensure that outcomes, statutory requirements and contract terms are met. Ensure action is taken to address risk on non-delivery.
What we’re looking for – knowledge, experience & skills
Significant experience in leading and managing commissioning projects within the public sector.
Experience in managing tender or procurement processes.
Proven track record of working collaboratively with various stakeholders.
Thorough understanding of the commissioning process and its application within the public sector.
In-depth knowledge of market analysis techniques.
Relevant degree or professional qualification in public health, social care or a related field.
Training in equality, diversity and inclusion practices.
Strong project management skills, excellent analytical and problem solving skills, and strong organisational skills.
Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and negotiate with senior staff and external providers.
Additional Information
This is a full-time position working 37 hours per week.
This role will require occasional requirements for evening or weekend work to meet project deadlines.
Some travel within the local area may be required for meetings and community engagement activities.
30 days of annual leave (additional to bank holidays)
Regretfully, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role. We are only able to proceed with candidates who already have the right to work in the UK without the need for visa sponsorship
For an informal chat about the role, you can contact Stephen Miles, Head of Service Commissioning, via email at
[email protected].
Or Ami Bestall, Service Manager – Adults Commissioning, via email at
[email protected].
