At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead risk, quality, and assurance for NHS Lothian's diverse healthcare facilities.
- Company: Join NHS Lothian, a major player in Scotland's healthcare system.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equality and support for all.
- Why this job: Shape the future of healthcare governance and ensure safety for patients and staff.
- Qualifications: Masters level education and proven experience in risk and quality management.
The predicted salary is between 46000 - 52000 £ 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 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 play a vital role in ensuring high-quality environments for both patients and staff, while benefiting from a diverse and inclusive workplace that values equality and diversity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Risk, Quality & Assurance
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the healthcare sector, especially those who work at NHS Lothian. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info about the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into NHS Lothian's values and recent projects. Show us that you’re not just a fit for the role but also for the culture. Tailor your examples to highlight your leadership and risk management skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After your interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining NHS Lothian and contributing to our mission of providing high-quality healthcare.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Risk, Quality & Assurance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in risk, quality, and assurance management. We want to see how your skills align with the specific needs of NHS Lothian, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a Head of Risk, Quality & Assurance, leadership is key! Use your application to demonstrate your experience managing teams and projects. Share examples of how you've led initiatives that improved compliance or governance in previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is crucial. We appreciate straightforward language that gets to the point. Avoid jargon unless it’s necessary, and make sure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly see why you’re a great fit!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details directly and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Eden Scott
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in risk, quality, and assurance management methodologies. Brush up on NHS statutory compliance requirements and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the role. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the concepts but can apply them effectively.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams and projects in the past. Highlight your ability to lead a multi-disciplinary team and engage with senior stakeholders. This is crucial for demonstrating that you can handle the responsibilities of leading the Risk, Quality & Assurance Management Team.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations related to risk management or compliance issues. Think through potential scenarios beforehand and prepare structured responses that showcase your analytical and problem-solving skills.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Don’t forget that interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about NHS Lothian’s current challenges in risk and quality management. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the organisation is the right fit for you.
