Contract and Commissioning Officer Location: Southampton, SO14 and Hybrid workingJob Type: TemporaryPay Rate: £20.98 (PAYE) or £29.30 per hour (Umbrella)Are you a motivated, skilled professional with experience in social care, commissioning or placements? We are seeking a Contract and Commissioning Officer to join its friendly, supportive and hardworking Placements Service. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in securing high-quality, appropriate placements and services for looked-after children, young people and their families, helping to achieve positive outcomes and support their long-term wellbeing.Key Responsibilities Coordinate and broker suitable fostering, residential and other social care placements, ensuring the best possible match for each child or young person.Monitor and review Individual Placement Agreements and commissioned services to ensure compliance with relevant legislation, regulations, policies and practice guidance.Negotiate placement costs, service provision and favourable contract terms, ensuring quality, positive outcomes and best value for the Local Authority.Build and maintain effective relationships with care providers, social care teams, commissioners and other internal and external stakeholders.Provide professional advice and guidance to support placement decisions and resolve contractual issues. Essential Skills and Experience Degree-level education or equivalent experience in a relevant field.Strong communication, negotiation ..... full job details .....