Service Manager (Commissioning and Placements)
- Multiple Locations
- Full Time
- £63,225 per annum

Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for improving the lives of children, young people, and families? We’re looking for a Commissioning Service Manager ready to make a real impact in Devon, for our Devon children and young people.
In this pivotal role, you’ll:
- Drive innovation in services for our most vulnerable children and young people – including those in our care, young carers, and those on the journey to independence.
- Lead on our sufficiency strategy – shaping the market, building strong provider relationships, and ensuring the right homes and support are in place for children in our care.
- Champion quality and outcomes – overseeing commissioning and quality assurance to deliver services that truly make a difference.
- Collaborate across systems – working with internal teams, regional partners, and providers to deliver joined-up, high-quality care.
We’re looking for someone with:
- Proven experience in commissioning for vulnerable groups (ideally children and young people)
- Strong knowledge of children’s services legislation and policy
- A commitment to inclusion, co-production, and putting young voices at the heart of decision-making
- Leadership skills to inspire teams, manage complex projects, and deliver results
This is your chance to shape services, influence strategy, and help every child in Devon thrive.
Interview Date: Friday 1st August 2025
For an informal discussion please contact Vikki Hearn vikki.hearn@devon.gov.uk
Internal Applicants, please note: If you are an existing DCC employee, please use your iTrent Employee Self Service (ESS) details to log in and apply.
Please click Apply Now to see the Job Description.
- DCC embraces the positive benefits of a diverse workforce and is committed to providing an environment that is inclusive and safe. We welcome applications from people who share our commitment to stop discrimination, challenge inequality and promote diversity across Devon. More information can be found on our Equality and Diversity webpages.
- Happy to Talk Flexible Working - The Council offers flexible working arrangements in terms of when and where people work e.g. hybrid working, part-time, condensed hours etc.
- We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
- This role requires the ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence and fluency in English.
- Personal data we collect from you will be processed in accordance with the Applicant privacy notice.
- For more information about Working for Devon please visit our Working for Devon page.
- We cannot consider visa sponsorship at this time. UK Right to Work is required. For further guidance on right to work in the UK, please visit: Work in the UK - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).
- This role requires a DBS disclosure.
Reference: REQ008139