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- Tasks: Lead operational strategies for Elective and Cancer services in a dynamic NHS Trust.
- Company: Join a leading Acute NHS Trust in the Midlands focused on high-quality patient care.
- Benefits: Enjoy a fixed-term Band 9 role with immediate start and impactful leadership opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a difference in patient care while gaining strategic exposure in NHS operations.
- Qualifications: Master’s-level qualification or equivalent experience in NHS operational leadership required.
- Other info: This is a high-impact role with a focus on service improvement and team leadership.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 100000 £ per year.
We are working in partnership with a leading Acute NHS Trust in the Midlands to appoint an exceptional Interim Deputy Chief Operating Officer (COO). This critical senior leadership position will support the Trust’s operational agenda with a sharp focus on the Elective and Cancer pathways, leading high-performing teams to deliver safe, effective, and sustainable services.
This is a Band 9 fixed-term opportunity for 6 months, with the Trust seeking an immediate start.
About the Role
- Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer and working as a key member of the senior leadership team, the Deputy COO will:
- Take operational leadership responsibility across clinical services, with a focus on Elective and Cancer performance\’
- Lead on the delivery of national performance targets, including cancer waiting times and RTT standards;
- Oversee and improve outpatient and theatre productivity, ensuring effective use of resources and delivery of financial sustainability;
- Lead the Trust’s daily operational grip, ensuring strong processes for patient flow, bed capacity, risk management, and service resilience;
- Drive compliance with NHSE, CQC, and regulatory standards, embedding governance and assurance processes;
- Actively contribute to Trust-wide leadership as part of the Corporate Directors Group;
- Deputise for the Chief Operating Officer, assuming executive-level responsibilities during periods of absence;
- Support cross-system collaboration with other providers and commissioners to improve access, quality, and patient experience.
Key Requirements
- The Trust are seeking an experienced and credible NHS operational leader with:
- A Master’s-level qualification or equivalent senior management experience;
- Substantial experience at senior operational level within an acute NHS environment;
- Proven success in elective and cancer service improvement, pathway redesign, and performance recovery;
- Track record of leading large, multidisciplinary teams within a complex performance management culture;
- Experience in financial oversight, including budget delivery, CIP programmes, and activity planning;
- Strong grasp of national NHS policy, operational planning, and assurance frameworks;
- Resilience, visibility, and the ability to lead under pressure in a demanding environment.
Why Apply?
- Strategic senior-level exposure at the heart of NHS operational delivery;
- Immediate start for a high-impact leadership role;
- Be part of a Trust committed to high-quality patient care and transformation.
If you are interested in the role, please email Toni Coates with a copy of your updated CV to along with your availability and rate understanding in line with the above. #J-18808-Ljbffr
Interim Deputy Chief Operating Officer Elective Care & Cancer employer: Finegreen
Contact Detail:
Finegreen Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Deputy Chief Operating Officer Elective Care & Cancer
✨Tip Number 1
Network with current and former NHS leaders, especially those who have experience in elective care and cancer services. Engaging with them can provide insights into the role and may even lead to a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest national performance targets related to cancer waiting times and RTT standards. Being well-versed in these metrics will demonstrate your commitment and readiness to tackle the challenges of the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've led multidisciplinary teams in high-pressure environments. Highlighting your leadership style and success stories will help you stand out during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the Trust's recent initiatives and challenges in elective care and cancer pathways. Showing that you understand their current landscape will position you as a proactive candidate who is ready to contribute from day one.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Deputy Chief Operating Officer Elective Care & Cancer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in NHS operational leadership, particularly in elective and cancer services. Use specific examples to demonstrate your success in improving performance and leading multidisciplinary teams.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that addresses the key requirements outlined in the job description. Emphasise your Master’s-level qualification or equivalent experience, and provide examples of how you've successfully managed operational challenges in an acute NHS environment.
Highlight Relevant Achievements: In both your CV and cover letter, focus on quantifiable achievements related to national performance targets, financial oversight, and service improvement. This will showcase your ability to deliver results in a demanding environment.
Follow Application Instructions: Ensure you follow the application instructions carefully. Email your updated CV along with your availability and rate understanding as specified in the job posting. Double-check for any additional documents that may be required.
How to prepare for a job interview at Finegreen
✨Understand the Trust's Vision
Before the interview, take some time to research the NHS Trust's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to high-quality patient care and transformation will help you align your responses with their goals.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
Be prepared to discuss specific examples of your leadership experience in an acute NHS environment. Highlight your successes in managing multidisciplinary teams and improving elective and cancer services, as these are key aspects of the role.
✨Showcase Financial Acumen
Since financial oversight is crucial for this position, be ready to talk about your experience with budget delivery and activity planning. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed resources to ensure financial sustainability.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your ability to handle operational challenges. Think about past situations where you had to ensure patient flow, manage bed capacity, or lead under pressure, and be ready to share those experiences.
