At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead public health initiatives focused on health protection and inclusion across Bristol.
- Company: Bristol City Council, a supportive and dynamic workplace.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, hybrid working, and pension scheme.
- Other info: Join a team committed to improving health outcomes and tackling inequalities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public health while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: MSc in Public Health or equivalent, with strong management experience.
The predicted salary is between 68653 - 76046 € per year.
Part Time 30 hours per week, Fixed Term for 12 months maternity cover. Due to our Principal Public Health Specialist’s maternity leave we have an exciting opportunity for a motivated and experienced public health specialist to join the Protecting and Inclusion Health programme leadership team for 12 months. This role is focused on Health Protection and Inclusion and will provide technical public health leadership with responsibility for delivery of both our acute response and wider prevention work, recognising the inequalities that drive infectious diseases and non-communicable harms.
The role will require strong partnership working both within the council but also across into wider system as together we seek to improve outcomes for our population.
What will I be doing?
- You will provide confident leadership and clear management to ensure effective strategic development and operational delivery of our preparedness and response to health protection risks across the city.
- You will manage a staff team and work with other council staff and external partner organisations to develop and deliver the service plan and drive forward the ambitions and the associated deliverables from the Corporate Strategy, One City Plan.
- You will ensure public health service delivery is to a high standard, including commissioned public health services and programmes, democratic processes and decision making.
- You will ensure that financial processes, including monitoring returns are adhered to.
What do I need to have? / Qualifications
- We are looking for an experienced Public Health manager who will be able to demonstrate strong leadership, technical rigour and ensure effective governance and operational service delivery across a wide range of services.
- You will have in-depth knowledge of the breadth of public health programmes particularly in relation to health protection and inclusion health populations.
- You will hold a MSc in Public Health or equivalent level qualification.
- You will have the ability to manage performance for programmes, contracts and people effectively.
Why Bristol City Council?
At Bristol City Council, we go that extra mile for our people; we offer a work environment which is fast moving and supportive, giving you the chance to use your skills and develop new ones within a high-profile organisation. For the majority of our roles hybrid working arrangements are available, giving teams the opportunity to work in a way that suits them, balancing service need and individual choice - mixing both home and office working. Join us and you’ll receive an excellent rewards package including membership of the Local Government Pension scheme, and a generous annual leave allowance. You’ll be working in a supportive environment where you’ll have the chance to make Bristol a better place and contribute to its future.
Additional information
If you share our values and are ready to be part of our exciting journey please select the apply button below. To be shortlisted for interview you’ll need to demonstrate how you meet each of the essential criteria in the Person Specification within the Further Information section of your application. We may shortlist against desirable criteria if numbers are high, so please demonstrate how you meet this in your application.
For permanent Bristol City Council employees, this post will be a secondment. For employees on a fixed term contract, the secondment must not extend beyond the end of the fixed term period to ensure there is a substantive post to return to. If you are currently a casual worker or a member of an employment agency this post will be a fixed term contract.
We are a Disability Confident employer and value recruiting and retaining disabled people. Any job applicants who meet the essential criteria in the Person Specification are guaranteed an interview. Reasonable adjustments will be provided throughout the interview process and workplace support will be available.
Interview date: 9 June 2026. For further information, refer to the Job Description and Person Specification or contact christina.gray@bristol.gov.uk.
Principal Public Health Specialist - Health Protection and Inclusion Health employer: Bristol City Council
Bristol City Council is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and development of its staff, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment. With flexible hybrid working arrangements, a comprehensive rewards package including membership in the Local Government Pension scheme, and a commitment to making a positive impact on the community, employees are empowered to grow their skills while contributing to the health and future of Bristol. Join us to be part of a team that values inclusivity and strives for excellence in public health.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Public Health Specialist - Health Protection and Inclusion Health
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in public health and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Bristol City Council's recent initiatives in health protection and inclusion. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role, but that you’re genuinely passionate about making a difference in the community.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Think of specific examples where you've led teams or projects successfully. We want to hear how you’ve tackled challenges and driven results in public health settings.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at Bristol City Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Public Health Specialist - Health Protection and Inclusion Health
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Principal Public Health Specialist. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this role requires strong leadership, don’t shy away from sharing examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. We want to see your confidence and capability in action!
Address the Essential Criteria:Take a close look at the Person Specification and ensure you address each essential criterion in your application. This is crucial for getting shortlisted, so be specific about how you meet these requirements.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bristol City Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of public health principles, especially around health protection and inclusion health. Brush up on recent trends and challenges in the field, as well as any specific programmes Bristol City Council is involved in.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience and how you've successfully managed teams or projects in the past. Be ready to discuss how you can provide confident leadership and ensure effective service delivery.
✨Understand the Local Context
Familiarise yourself with Bristol's public health landscape. Knowing the local issues and how they relate to health inequalities will show that you're not just qualified, but also genuinely interested in making a difference in the community.
✨Prepare for Partnership Questions
Since this role involves strong partnership working, think about your experiences collaborating with other organisations. Be prepared to discuss how you can build relationships and work effectively across different sectors to improve health outcomes.
