At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations at SignHealth, ensuring quality and safety in health services for deaf people.
- Company: Join SignHealth, a charity dedicated to improving the health of the deaf community.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and paid study leave.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of deaf individuals while leading impactful change.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in health or social care, with a commitment to equality and inclusion.
- Other info: Accessible recruitment process with support available at every stage.
The predicted salary is between 78000 - 108000 £ per year.
SignHealth is a national charity working to improve the health and wellbeing of deaf people. They deliver specialist health and care services in British Sign Language (BSL) and campaign to remove barriers in the health system. Together, we are seeking a Chief Operations Officer (COO) to join their Executive Team at an exciting time of growth.
The Role
As COO, you will help lead SignHealth day to day, working closely with the CEO and their Trustees. You will be responsible for the quality, safety, and development of services across social care, therapy, domestic abuse, and children and young people’s services. This is a senior leadership role with responsibility for operations, regulation (including CQC, being the Nominated Individual), safeguarding, and service improvement, ensuring deaf people’s needs and culture are always at the centre.
About You / Qualifications
- We welcome applications from deaf candidates or those with lived experiences and direct experience of advocacy for marginalised communities.
- Senior leadership experience in health, social care, or a related sector preferably with services for deaf or disabled people.
- Strong understanding of regulations, safeguarding, and quality standards.
- Experience leading change and improving services.
- A commitment to equality, access, and deaf inclusion.
- BSL skills are important, ideally qualified to Level 2 but are also considering those willing to learn (to a Level 2 standard, funded training is provided).
Salary & Benefits
- Salary: £93,600 per annum.
- 25 days annual leave + 8 Bank Holidays + 2 Wellbeing Days.
- Pension scheme.
- 5 days of paid study leave per year for applicable courses of study.
- Long service annual leave rewards.
- 2 x death in service benefit.
Accessibility
We are committed to an accessible recruitment process and can provide:
- BSL / English interpreters.
- Captioning or other communication support.
- Adjustments at every stage.
Please tell us what works best for you.
How to Apply
This role is being recruited through an exclusive partnership with Compass Associates. The deadline for all applications is 1 March 2026.
For a confidential conversation or to discuss access needs, please contact:
- Adam Brenton - Director of Healthcare & Specialist Services - Compass Associates - abrenton@compassltd.co.uk – 07818 249 267
- Ani Abello - Associate Director for Specialist Services - Compass Associates - aabello@compassltd.co.uk – 07872 336 246
Chief Operating Officer employer: Compass Associates
Contact Detail:
Compass Associates Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the health and social care sectors, especially those involved with deaf services. A personal recommendation can make all the difference when you're aiming for that COO role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching SignHealth thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and current projects. This will help you demonstrate your commitment to equality and inclusion during your chat with the CEO and Trustees.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've led change and improved services in your previous roles. Highlight your experience with regulations and safeguarding to reassure them you're the right fit.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way in landing that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the COO role at SignHealth. Highlight your senior leadership experience in health or social care, especially if it relates to deaf or disabled communities. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission!
Showcase Your Commitment: Demonstrate your commitment to equality, access, and deaf inclusion in your application. Share specific examples of how you've advocated for marginalised communities or led change in your previous roles. This is key for us!
Highlight Relevant Skills: If you have BSL skills, make sure to mention them! Even if you're not qualified to Level 2 yet, let us know if you're willing to learn. We value candidates who are eager to grow and adapt to our needs.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensure you don’t miss any important updates. Let’s get started on this journey together!
How to prepare for a job interview at Compass Associates
✨Know the Organisation Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you research SignHealth thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and the specific services they provide for deaf people. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a COO, your leadership skills are crucial. Prepare examples from your past roles where you've successfully led teams, improved services, or implemented change. Be ready to discuss how these experiences can translate into success at SignHealth.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Inclusion
Given the focus on equality and access, be prepared to discuss your understanding of these issues, especially in relation to deaf communities. Share any relevant experiences or initiatives you've been involved in that highlight your commitment to inclusivity.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the organisation's future plans, challenges they face, or how they measure success in their services. This shows you're not just interested in the role, but also in contributing to the organisation's growth.