At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operational performance and drive service transformation in a dynamic NHS Trust.
- Company: Join Milton Keynes University Hospital, a forward-thinking NHS Trust committed to excellence.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team culture with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on healthcare delivery and improve patient experiences.
- Qualifications: Substantial senior NHS operational leadership experience and strong interpersonal skills.
The predicted salary is between 44530 - 54426 £ per year.
Milton Keynes University Hospital is seeking an experienced and influential Associate Director of Operations (ADO) to join our senior operational leadership team. This is an exciting opportunity to influence the future of healthcare delivery within a growing and forward-thinking NHS Trust. Working closely with clinical, nursing and corporate colleagues, you will help maintain patient safety and treatment effectiveness, improve patient experience, transform services and make a positive difference to the health and wellbeing of the communities we serve.
We are looking for an ADO with substantial senior NHS operational leadership experience and a strong alignment to our values and behaviours. We want our ADO to be enthusiastic, energetic, outgoing and a highly visible leader who promotes professionalism and openness, empowering our staff to consistently provide high-quality care with compassion. You will be someone who inspires confidence, builds strong relationships and brings people together to deliver sustainable improvements for patients and staff.
If you see yourself reflected in our values, behaviours and ambitions, we would love to hear from you. Interviews will be in person on Monday 24 August 2026.
94% of staff within this team, who participated in the 2025/26 NHS Staff Survey, reported a strong team culture and positive working relationships, reflecting a supportive, collaborative environment where colleagues feel respected, valued and able to work together effectively.
The ADO has a pivotal leadership role at the heart of our organisation. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer and Divisional Director, you will provide strategic and operational leadership across your portfolio, ensuring the delivery of safe, effective and high-quality services while achieving demanding national and local performance standards.
You will play a key role in shaping and delivering the strategic direction of your services, driving operational performance, leading service transformation and ensuring patients receive outstanding care and experience.
We seek colleagues as diverse as the population we serve and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected and able to thrive. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds who share our ambition to deliver outstanding care and improve the lives of our patients and communities.
As a medium-sized general hospital, we provide a full range of general medical and surgical services, including a busy Emergency Department, Maternity, and Paediatrics. As the population of our city and surrounding areas continues to grow rapidly, we are expanding and enhancing our facilities to meet rising demand and improve access to care for all our communities.
We are also proud to offer a growing portfolio of specialist services. In January 2025 we opened our state-of-the-art Radiotherapy Centre, bringing advanced cancer treatment closer to home. Our services also include neonatology, specialist surgical care, and a wide range of diagnostics, supported by the new Community Diagnostic Centre at Whitehouse Health Centre. We have just opened the Oak Wards - a new ward block featuring two 24-bed wards. Further investment is underway, including the recently approved Women and Children’s Centre, set to open by 2030.
The Associate Director of Operations will build effective relationships across organisational and system boundaries, working collaboratively with clinicians, corporate teams, commissioners and partners to support service development and transformation. Through strong governance, effective resource management and a commitment to staff engagement and development, the post holder will create the conditions for high performing teams to deliver outstanding patient care.
As Associate Director of Operations, you will:
- Contribute to the delivery of the Trust's vision, strategy and objectives through the development and implementation of divisional and service plans.
- Lead operational performance across services, ensuring delivery against quality, access, workforce and financial targets.
- Analyse performance, identify risks and opportunities and develop mitigation plans to support sustainable service delivery.
- Drive service improvement, transformation and clinical pathway redesign, using best practice, patient feedback and benchmarking to inform change.
- Support business planning, workforce planning and resource allocation, ensuring services remain effective, productive and financially sustainable.
- Manage delegated budgets and contribute to the achievement of cost improvement and efficiency programmes.
- Lead, develop and performance manage operational teams, creating a culture of accountability, engagement, learning and continuous improvement.
- Ensure robust governance, risk management and assurance arrangements are in place across all areas of responsibility.
- Build strong relationships with clinical leaders, corporate departments, commissioners and system partners to support integrated patient care and service development.
- Represent the Division and the Trust at internal and external meetings, providing operational expertise, influence and leadership.
- Act as a role model for the Trust's values and behaviours, promoting collaboration, inclusion and compassionate leadership.
- Participate in the Trust's senior manager on call rota and provide leadership during periods of operational pressure or incident response.
Associate Director of Operations (ADO) | Milton Keynes University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust employer: Allscreens Nationwide Ltd
Allscreens Nationwide is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive team culture where employees are valued and encouraged to thrive. With access to state-of-the-art training facilities and opportunities for career progression, our Automotive Glazing Technicians in Birmingham can expect not only competitive bonuses but also the chance to work with the latest technology in the industry. Join us and be part of a company that prioritises both employee well-being and customer satisfaction.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director of Operations (ADO) | Milton Keynes University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
✨Get Involved with Local Health Initiatives
Join local community health events or volunteer for organisations like public health agencies. This not only builds your experience but also helps you network with industry professionals who might know of openings at places like Allscreens Nationwide Ltd.
✨Tap into Professional Associations
Check out associations like the Institute of Healthcare Management. They often have job boards, networking events, and conferences that are perfect for connecting with potential employers in health sciences administration.
✨Stay Updated with Industry Trends
Follow health policy news and trends—being knowledgeable about the current landscape will not only help you in interviews but also make you stand out as a candidate. You can discuss recent developments and their implications when chatting with folks at Allscreens Nationwide Ltd.
✨Apply Through Our Website for Better Visibility
When you find roles that excite you, especially at places like Allscreens Nationwide Ltd, don’t forget to apply through our website. This can sometimes give you an edge by showing the employer you’re savvy and committed to finding the right fit.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director of Operations (ADO) | Milton Keynes University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in health sciences administration, it's super important to spotlight any relevant experience you have in healthcare settings. Whether you've worked in a hospital, a clinic, or any related environment, make sure to detail those roles in your CV – focusing on your responsibilities and achievements that align with the job at Allscreens Nationwide Ltd.
Showcase Your Administrative Skills:Administrative skills are key in this field, so don’t hold back! Make sure your CV reflects your proficiency in things like scheduling, data management, and compliance with health regulations. Mention specific software you’ve used, such as patient management systems, as this will demonstrate your hands-on abilities and readiness for the role at Allscreens Nationwide Ltd.
Craft a Meaningful Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the health sciences field and your eagerness to contribute to Allscreens Nationwide Ltd. Share a bit about why you’re drawn to this sector, any impactful situations or challenges you’ve encountered, and how they’ve shaped your desire to work in health sciences administration. This personal touch can really set you apart!
Tailor Your Documents to the Job:Don't use a one-size-fits-all approach! Make sure your CV and cover letter are specifically tailored for this role. Highlight any certifications you have relevant to health administration, and ensure you clearly connect your previous roles to the skills needed for the full-time position at Allscreens Nationwide Ltd. This way, you're showing them you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in being a part of their team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Allscreens Nationwide Ltd
✨Showcase Your Administrative Skills
In health sciences administration, being organised is key. Make sure you can demonstrate your skills in managing schedules, paperwork, and data accurately. Be ready to discuss specific tools you've used, like electronic health record systems or scheduling software, and how they improved efficiency in your past experiences.
✨Know Your Regulations
Familiarity with healthcare regulations and compliance is crucial. Brush up on HIPAA, GDPR, or other relevant policies before your interview. We recommend preparing examples of how you've ensured compliance or handled sensitive information in past roles—this will show you're not just knowledgeable but also responsible.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Interviews for administrative roles often involve scenario-based questions to assess your problem-solving skills. Practice responses to common situations you might face, such as dealing with a challenging patient or managing a sudden schedule change. This will not only demonstrate your ability to think on your feet but also highlight your interpersonal skills.
✨Align Your Goals with the Organisation
As a full-time candidate, employers will want to know how your long-term career goals align with their mission. Take some time to research Allscreens Nationwide Ltd’s values and be ready to tie your passion for health sciences administration into their objectives. Demonstrating enthusiasm and career alignment can be a game-changer in this competitive field!
