At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a passionate team in delivering exceptional palliative care and drive positive change.
- Company: Join a respected charity hospice in East Lancashire, dedicated to compassionate end-of-life care.
- Benefits: Enjoy autonomy, purpose, and the chance to make a real difference in people's lives.
- Why this job: Shape the future of hospice care while working with a committed and compassionate team.
- Qualifications: Significant leadership experience in healthcare or charity, with strong governance and communication skills.
- Other info: This role requires an enhanced DBS check for safeguarding vulnerable adults and children.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Are you a strategic leader with compassion at your core? Join a deeply respected, community-rooted hospice as our next Chief Executive Officer and lead a passionate team in delivering exceptional care at one of life's most vital stages. This is a rare and meaningful opportunity to drive positive change in palliative and end-of-life care, championing excellence across clinical services, fundraising, governance, and stakeholder engagement.
About the Hospice
Our hospice is a cornerstone of care in East Lancashire, offering essential services for patients and families affected by life-limiting conditions. We are a charity-led organisation guided by values of compassion, integrity, and excellence, supporting people with dignity, respect, and empathy every step of the way. With a dedicated team of clinical professionals, support staff, and volunteers, we deliver hospice care that goes beyond medicine, focusing on comfort, connection, and quality of life.
The Role: CEO
This is a dynamic and high-impact leadership role where you will:
- Shape and lead the strategic vision of the hospice in collaboration with the Board of Trustees
- Inspire and support an outstanding team of staff and volunteers across all departments
- Ensure clinical and operational excellence, including regulatory compliance (CQC, Charity Commission)
- Oversee financial sustainability, including budgets, fundraising, and external partnerships
- Represent the hospice externally, building relationships with commissioners, NHS partners, donors, and the wider community
- Be a culture leader, creating an environment of learning, compassion, and continuous improvement
About You
We're looking for a values-driven, emotionally intelligent leader who brings:
- Significant senior leadership experience in a healthcare, charity, or public sector environment
- Strong knowledge of governance, compliance, risk, HR, and strategic planning
- Excellent communication skills and emotional resilience
- A passion for hospice care and the difference it makes in people's lives
Essential:
- Relevant degree or professional qualification
- Leadership/management qualification
- Financial literacy and budget oversight experience
- Full UK driving licence and access to transport
- Ability to work flexibly, including occasional evenings/weekends
Desirable:
- Experience in palliative care, health/social care, or voluntary sector leadership
- Masters degree or clinical qualification
Why Join Us?
- Lead a highly respected organisation with a strong foundation and deep community trust
- Make a real, lasting difference in people's lives when it matters most
- Work with a committed, compassionate team of professionals and volunteers
- Enjoy autonomy and purpose in shaping the future of hospice care in your region
- Be part of a workplace culture that truly reflects its values every single day
How to Apply
This is more than a career move; it's a chance to lead with heart and make a difference that lasts a lifetime. To apply or request an application pack, please contact Amy Hutcheson on 01254 311477 or via email.
NB The hospice is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable adults and children. An enhanced DBS check will be required.
Chief Executive Officer employer: Cummins Mellor
Contact Detail:
Cummins Mellor Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Executive Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the healthcare and charity sectors. Attend relevant conferences or local events to meet potential stakeholders and learn more about the hospice community. Building these connections can provide valuable insights and may even lead to recommendations.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the hospice's current initiatives and challenges. Understanding their strategic vision and operational needs will allow you to tailor your discussions during interviews, demonstrating your commitment and readiness to lead effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how it aligns with the hospice's values of compassion, integrity, and excellence. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've inspired teams and driven positive change in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the regulatory frameworks that govern hospice care, such as CQC standards. Being knowledgeable about compliance and governance will show your preparedness for the role and your commitment to maintaining high standards of care.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before you start writing your application, take time to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Chief Executive Officer position. Reflect on how your experience aligns with the strategic vision and values of the hospice.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant senior leadership experience in healthcare or charity sectors. Emphasise your achievements in governance, compliance, and financial oversight, ensuring it resonates with the hospice's mission and values.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should convey your passion for hospice care and your emotional intelligence as a leader. Use specific examples from your past roles to demonstrate how you can inspire and support teams while driving positive change.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for clarity and professionalism. Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors, as these can detract from the strong impression you want to make.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cummins Mellor
✨Demonstrate Your Vision
As a candidate for the CEO position, it's crucial to articulate your strategic vision for the hospice. Prepare to discuss how you would shape the future of palliative care and align it with the organisation's values of compassion and integrity.
✨Showcase Emotional Intelligence
Given the nature of the role, emotional intelligence is key. Be ready to share examples of how you've led teams with empathy and understanding, especially in challenging situations. This will highlight your ability to inspire and support staff and volunteers.
✨Highlight Governance and Compliance Knowledge
Familiarise yourself with the regulatory frameworks relevant to the hospice sector, such as CQC and Charity Commission standards. Be prepared to discuss your experience in ensuring compliance and how you would maintain operational excellence.
✨Engage with Community and Stakeholders
The role requires strong external representation. Think about how you would build relationships with commissioners, NHS partners, and the community. Share any past experiences where you've successfully engaged stakeholders to drive positive change.