At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead risk, quality, and assurance for NHS Lothian's diverse healthcare facilities.
- Company: Join one of Scotland’s largest healthcare systems with a commitment to quality.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team dedicated to equality and inclusion.
- Why this job: Shape the future of healthcare governance and ensure safe environments for patients and staff.
- Qualifications: Master's level education in risk management and proven leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 70000 £ per year.
About NHS Lothian
NHS Lothian is one of Scotland’s largest and most complex healthcare systems, serving a population of over 900,000 people across Edinburgh, East Lothian, Midlothian and West Lothian. With 24,000 staff, we operate 118 premises, including major acute hospitals, community hospitals, and primary care facilities. The Estates & Facilities Directorate plays a critical role in ensuring safe, compliant and high‑quality environments for patients and staff across this diverse estate.
The Role
We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated professional to lead our Risk, Quality & Assurance function within Estates & Facilities. This strategic role is pivotal in ensuring robust governance, compliance, and continuous improvement across all NHS Lothian premises, including PFI and leased sites.
Reporting to the Director of Estates & Facilities, you will:
- Support the delivery and development of improved performance and compliance across Estates & Facilities through the implementation of risk, quality and assurance management methodologies.
- Lead the implementation of NHS Lothian’s Estates & Facilities Risk, Quality & Assurance Management Strategy.
- Lead and manage the Risk, Quality & Assurance Management Team and Service, raising the profile of risk, quality and assurance management through the development, implementation and monitoring of relevant strategies and policies.
- Provide expert advice on statutory compliance, assurance frameworks and risk management methodologies.
- Act as the designated Incident and Safety Alert Notice Officer (Responsible Person) for Estates & Facilities in accordance with SHTN 00-44.
- Manage a multi‑disciplinary team (approx. 20 WTE) and oversee budgets of around £1M revenue plus significant capital allocations.
- Develop and monitor governance arrangements, performance frameworks and compliance systems.
- Engage with senior stakeholders, including the NHS Board Executive Leadership Team, and external bodies such as NHS Assure, Scottish Government and regulatory agencies.
- Provide cover for the Director and Associate Director in their absence.
Education, Skills & Experience
Education: Educated to SCQF Level 11 (Masters) or equivalent experience in risk, safety and quality management, plus a postgraduate qualification in leadership/management.
Experience: A proven track record in risk, quality and assurance management within Estates & Facilities, strong knowledge of NHS statutory and mandatory compliance requirements, financial and staff management experience at a senior level.
Skills: Highly developed analytical, communication and leadership skills. Ability to interpret complex data, develop and implement policies, procedures and protocols, devise monitoring tools. Experience managing others, managing change, managing projects and contributing to strategic developments within identified timescales.
Why Join Us?
This is an opportunity to influence and shape the future of Estates & Facilities governance within one of Scotland’s leading healthcare organisations. You will play a critical role in ensuring safe, compliant and high‑quality environments for patients and staff.
Eligibility Requirements
This post requires the post holder to have a PVG Scheme membership or record. If the post holder is not a current PVG member for the required regulatory group (i.e. child and/or adult) then an application will need to be made to Disclosure Scotland and deemed satisfactory before commencement of duties. Due to legislative changes from 1 April 2025, this post may require a different level of criminal record check than is currently the case. If the post is assessed as a regulated role, your appointment will be subject to joining the Protecting Vulnerable Groups Scheme. Any change to the current requirement will be confirmed by the hiring manager or recruitment team.
Equality and Diversity
NHS Scotland is committed to encouraging equality and diversity among our workforce and eliminating unlawful discrimination. The aim is for our workforce to be truly representative and for each employee to feel respected and able to give their best. NHS Scotland welcomes applications from all sections of society and will fully support disabled candidates, those with long‑term conditions or neurodivergent individuals by making reasonable adjustments to our recruitment policy and practices.
Head of Risk, Quality & Assurance in Edinburgh employer: Eden Scott
NHS Lothian is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead the Risk, Quality & Assurance function within one of Scotland's largest healthcare systems. With a commitment to employee growth and a supportive work culture, you will be part of a dedicated team focused on ensuring high-quality environments for both patients and staff. The role not only allows for professional development but also provides the chance to make a meaningful impact on healthcare governance across Edinburgh and the surrounding areas.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Risk, Quality & Assurance in Edinburgh
✨Join Compliance Communities
Get involved in compliance and risk communities — both online and offline. Look for forums, LinkedIn groups, or even local meetups where compliance pros hang out. You never know who might drop a job opportunity your way!
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Keep an eye out for compliance and risk management conferences and workshops in your area. These events are a goldmine for networking, and they often have job boards or recruiters on-site looking for new talent. Plus, it’s a chance to learn what's trending in the field.
✨Leverage Your University Career Services
If you’ve recently graduated or are still studying, head over to your university's career services. Many companies, including those in compliance, actively recruit fresh talent through these services, so make sure you tap into that resource.
✨Showcase Your Knowledge Online
Start writing articles or blog posts about compliance topics that interest you. Share them on platforms like LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and passion. This not only builds your presence in the field but can also catch the attention of companies like Eden Scott looking for candidates who are engaged and informed.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Risk, Quality & Assurance in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Understanding of Compliance:In the compliance-risk field, it's super important to showcase your understanding of regulations and risk management frameworks. Highlight any relevant coursework, certifications (like ICA or AML), or even projects that demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to this area. We want to see how you can navigate this complex landscape!
Quantify Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, try to quantify your achievements. For example, if you've previously worked on a project that improved compliance metrics or reduced risk exposure, give us the numbers! This data-driven approach really stands out to hiring managers in compliance-risk roles.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Relevant Skills:Make sure your CV highlights skills that are particularly relevant to compliance, like attention to detail, analytical thinking, and report writing. Ensure these are easy to spot – consider using bullet points to break down your responsibilities and achievements for maximum impact!
Craft a Motivating Cover Letter:In your cover letter, let us know why you’re excited about the compliance-risk role at Eden Scott. Share what motivates you about compliance, and how you believe you can contribute to our mission. This is your chance to showcase not only your skills but also your passion for this important field!
How to prepare for a job interview at Eden Scott
✨Master the Regulations
Brush up on key compliance regulations relevant to the industry you're applying to. Familiarising yourself with specific laws and frameworks used in your field will give you an edge during technical questions. Show that you’re not just aware of them but can also apply them—think real-life scenarios!
✨Show Your Analytical Skills
Compliance roles really focus on analytical skills, so be prepared for case studies or situational questions during the interview. We've got to demonstrate how we approach risk assessments or compliance audits, possibly drawing on examples from past experiences or university projects. Bring some thoughtful case scenarios to discuss!
✨Know Your Tools
Get comfortable with commonly used compliance software and tools. Familiarity with platforms like RSA or MetricStream can really impress during your interview, as it shows you're ready to hit the ground running. If you’ve had any experience with them, make sure to highlight that!
✨Align with Company Culture
Since it's a full-time position, show your long-term commitment and interest in the company’s mission and values. Dive into how your ethics and professional philosophy align with Eden Scott’s stance on compliance. A shared vision can really resonate with interviewers looking for fit as much as skill!
