Deputy Head of Contracts


Company:	NHS Jobs
Salary:	£47,302 - £54,129
Hours:	Full-time
Location:	Coalville, LE67 3FT
Job type:	Permanent
Posting date:	21 Aug 2026
Closing date:	6 Sept 2026

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Summary

Responsibilities Deputising for the Head of Contracts two days per week and during their absence, providing strategic and operational leadership of the contracts team, attending senior leadership and commissioner meetings, and making decisions within delegated authority. Leading on the management and oversight of high-value and complex subcontracts across the PCL portfolio. Delegated responsibility for a portfolio of contracts, managing the contracts , service specifications, KPI monitoring and analysis, and providing expert knowledge of contract activity monitoring and reporting. Directly involved in the negotiation, agreement, monitoring and management of complex contracts with Commissioners and Providers, including leading on contentious or high-risk contract matters. Supporting the annual contract negotiation process (value > £10 million) and the in-year management of the resultant contracts, spanning NHS and independent sector provider contracts. Supporting procurement processes, including tenders and expressions of interest (EOIs), as required. Maintaining the contract portfolio management system and contract assurance and compliance of new and existing subcontract providers Providing line management support, guidance and development to junior members of the contracts team, including the Contract support officer as directed by the Head of Contracts. Supporting the Finance and BI team with contractual knowledge to aid with data processing, systems development and analysis of complex and sensitive information, and liaising with Commissioners, Providers and GPs. Acting as a subject matter expert across the contracts team, providing advice and guidance on contracting matters to colleagues at all levels. Provide operational leadership for the team two days per week and during absences, providing continuity of leadership across the contracts function and representing PCL at senior forums, commissioner meetings and provider negotiations as required. Provide day-to-day guidance and oversight to the contracts team in the Head of Contracts absence, ensuring priorities are maintained and deadlines are met. Support the Head of Contracts in the development and implementation of contracts team strategy, policies and processes. Act as a senior point of escalation for complex or contentious contracting matters, providing expert advice and resolution. Ensure contracts are drafted, signed, routinely reviewed and renewed via the contract management system promptly and to a high standard. Lead contract meetings, monitoring corrective actions, reviewing performance reports, providing expert advice and sharing best practice. Develop and maintain relationships with providers and commissioners at a senior level, ensuring service delivery and compliance issues are addressed promptly, and contributing to the development of new contracts and pathway transformation.

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