At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead acute hospital services and ensure safe, effective operations.
- Company: Join a pioneering NHS Trust dedicated to community health integration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, diverse workforce, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to local community support and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in healthcare during a critical period of transformation.
- Qualifications: Master's degree and extensive leadership experience in a complex NHS setting.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 117800 £ per year.
The Managing Director for Acute Services will provide executive level leadership and be responsible at board level for all Acute Hospital Services. Working in tandem with the Managing Director - Community Services and Integration, they will ensure the Trust's operational services are delivered in a safe and effective way.
Main duties of the job:
- This is a pivotal leadership role, requiring an experienced senior NHS operator with:
- Demonstrable experience as a Managing Director/Chief Operating Officer or equivalent in an acute setting
- Direct involvement in winter pressures planning and delivery
- Strong financial and operational oversight of budgets and resources
- A detailed understanding of patient pathways and service flow across acute services
This role will require a visible and highly engaged leader who can provide immediate impact and assurance across acute services during a critical period.
About us:
Croydon is a trailblazer in integration to join-up the health and care services available for local people and breakdown barriers between professional teams to make the most of our workforce and expertise. The Trust runs two hospitals, north and south of the borough. Its main campus, Croydon University Hospital, is home to the borough's only Emergency Department and often receives more ambulances than many major trauma centres. The hospital provides more than 100 specialist services, including 24/7 maternity care. An ongoing investment programme is also transforming the facilities available, with a dedicated new children's unit and multi-million pound intensive care unit opening in 2023. The Trust has one of the most diverse workforce profiles in the capital, with more than half of its staff from Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic groups - almost twice the national average - reflecting the diverse communities it cares for. At the same time, the Trust is increasing its role as an anchor institution at the heart of its local community. As the borough's largest employer, this includes supporting local business through kick-starters and apprenticeships to increase employment, and working with local universities to train the next generation of health and care workers in Croydon.
Job responsibilities:
Please see the attached supporting job description and person specification document, which contains more information about the role and requirements. Please ensure your application refers to the job description and person specification.
Tentative interview date: Friday, 1st May 2026
Person Specification:
EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS AND/OR TRAINING:
- Educated to Master's degree level or equivalent experience
EXPERIENCE:
- Extensive leadership and operational management in a large complex NHS organisation.
- Experience of capacity planning and translating organisation strategy and vision into operational objectives.
- Application evidences collaborative work, encouraging teamwork and cooperation among diverse stakeholders to achieve common goals.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check:
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Managing Director - Acute Services employer: Croydon Health Services NHS Trust
Contact Detail:
Croydon Health Services NHS Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Managing Director - Acute Services
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the NHS or healthcare sector. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet key players. Remember, it’s not just about what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the Trust and its recent initiatives, especially around integration and community services. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their mission and ready to lead.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share specific examples of how you've tackled winter pressures or managed budgets effectively. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨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 love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Managing Director - Acute Services
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know the Role Inside Out: Before you start writing, make sure you really understand what the Managing Director for Acute Services role is all about. Dive into the job description and person specification, and think about how your experience aligns with the key responsibilities and requirements.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! We want to see how your unique skills and experiences fit the specific needs of the Trust. Highlight your leadership experience in acute settings and any relevant achievements that demonstrate your ability to manage operational services effectively.
Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit: This role is all about teamwork and cooperation. Make sure to include examples of how you've worked with diverse stakeholders in the past. We love seeing candidates who can bring people together to achieve common goals, especially in complex environments like the NHS.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Croydon!
How to prepare for a job interview at Croydon Health Services NHS Trust
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the Trust's operations, especially around acute services. Brush up on recent developments in the NHS and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, particularly in winter pressures planning and patient pathways.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Managing Director, your leadership style is crucial. Prepare examples that demonstrate your ability to lead diverse teams and foster collaboration. Think about times you've made an immediate impact in previous roles and be ready to share those stories.
✨Financial Savvy is Key
Since financial oversight is part of the role, be prepared to discuss your experience managing budgets and resources. Bring specific examples of how you've successfully navigated financial challenges in an acute setting, and how you ensured operational efficiency.
✨Engage with the Community
The Trust values its role in the local community, so show that you understand this aspect. Be ready to talk about how you've previously engaged with local stakeholders or improved services for diverse populations. This will highlight your commitment to the community and the Trust's mission.