At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead governance and assurance across NHS Devon and Cornwall, driving transformation and effective decision-making.
- Company: Join a pivotal role in the NHS at a time of significant change.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to shape healthcare governance.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team influencing the future of healthcare governance.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public health and governance in a complex system.
- Qualifications: Senior governance experience in regulated environments, ideally within the NHS.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 € per year.
We are seeking an exceptional and innovative Chief Governance Officer (Company Secretary) to provide expert, system-level leadership of governance, assurance, and corporate services across NHS Devon and NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly, working within a single ICB Cluster arrangement ahead of an anticipated future merger. This is a pivotal executive leadership role at a critical point of transformation for the NHS. As ICBs transition towards a more strategic commissioning and system leadership model, the Chief Governance Officer will ensure that governance enables change, assures Boards and regulators, and underpins safe, transparent and effective decision-making across the system.
Reporting directly to both the Chairman and the Chief Executive Officer and acting as a formal participant of the Board, you will be the principal adviser on all matters of governance, assurance and statutory compliance, risk operating at the heart of system leadership. Together, we serve one of the largest, most complex, and geographically challenging health systems in England, covering extensive rural, coastal, and island communities, and urban areas.
As our Chief Governance Officer (Company Secretary), you will play a central role in ensuring that governance arrangements are robust, proportionate, and future-focused, supporting transformation whilst maintaining public trust, accountability, and statutory assurance. You will work closely with NHS England, system partners and senior leaders to ensure governance arrangements support evolving operating models, shared leadership structures and future integration.
In this appointment, we are seeking a qualified senior governance professional with significant experience at Board or system level within complex, regulated environments. You will bring deep expertise in corporate governance, assurance, risk management, and statutory compliance, ideally within the NHS or wider public sector. With the confidence and credibility to advise and influence Boards, you will have strong political acumen, diplomacy, and communication skills, and the ability to build trusted relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of governance for our ICB Cluster and our governance arrangements with Providers and Local Authorities, at a defining moment for the NHS and our organisations. You will be at the heart of system leadership decision making, ensuring that governance enables innovation, collaboration, and improvement of outcomes for our populations.
For a discussion in confidence, please contact our retained recruitment partners at GatenbySanderson:
- Lucy Deane E: lucy.deane@gatenbysanderson.com T: +44 (0) 7825 990 792
- Melanie Shearer, Partner E: melanie.shearer@gatenbysanderson.com T: +44 (0) 7785 616 548
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How to Apply: Please submit an up to date copy of your CV, along with a Supporting Statement that addresses the criteria set out in the person specification, using examples to demonstrate how you meet the essential requirements. A completed fit and proper person form - the template can be downloaded from the same place as the job description. Detail any employment or education gaps. You should provide the names, positions, organisations, and contact details for your referees, which must be your line managers and include your current and most recent employer. The referees should cover at least two roles as the minimum. Please note, should you be appointed, you will be required to provide references covering your last 6 years of employment as per the new NHS Fit and Proper Person regulations. Where there have been gaps in employment, this six year period will be extended accordingly. Referees will only be contacted for those proceeding to the final stage - we will always gain your permission before we contact referees.
Chief Governance Officer (Company Secretary) | London, UK employer: GatenbySanderson
At NHS Devon and NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values innovation, collaboration, and professional growth. As a Chief Governance Officer, you will be at the forefront of transformative governance within one of England's most complex health systems, enjoying a supportive work culture that prioritises public trust and accountability. With ample opportunities for career advancement and the chance to make a meaningful impact on healthcare delivery in diverse communities, this role offers a unique and rewarding experience in a pivotal moment for the NHS.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Governance Officer (Company Secretary) | London, UK
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the NHS or governance sectors. Attend relevant events and engage with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation's governance structure and recent changes in the NHS. Show that you understand their challenges and how you can contribute to their transformation. We want to see your passion for making a difference!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your experience in corporate governance and risk management clearly. Highlight specific examples where you've influenced decision-making or improved governance processes. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search. Let’s get you that Chief Governance Officer role!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Governance Officer (Company Secretary) | London, UK
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Chief Governance Officer role. Highlight your experience in governance, assurance, and risk management, especially within complex environments like the NHS. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement:Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Address the criteria in the person specification directly and use specific examples to demonstrate how you meet them. We love seeing real-life applications of your skills!
Check Your References:Before you hit submit, double-check that your referees are up to date and relevant. We need to hear from your line managers, so make sure they’re on board and ready to vouch for your awesomeness!
Submit Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application. Plus, you’ll get an automated email confirmation, so you know we’ve received it. If you don’t see that email, give us a shout!
How to prepare for a job interview at GatenbySanderson
✨Know Your Governance Inside Out
As a Chief Governance Officer, you need to demonstrate a deep understanding of governance frameworks and statutory compliance. Brush up on the latest NHS guidelines and be ready to discuss how these can be applied in practice. Show that you can navigate complex regulatory environments with ease.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role is pivotal in system leadership, so be prepared to share examples of your previous leadership experiences. Highlight situations where you've influenced decision-making at a board level or led significant governance changes. This will show your capability to drive transformation within the NHS.
✨Build Relationships with Stakeholders
Strong political acumen and relationship-building skills are crucial. Think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with various stakeholders, including senior leaders and external partners. Be ready to discuss how you can foster trust and transparency in governance arrangements.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come armed with insightful questions about the organisation's governance challenges and future direction. This not only shows your interest but also your strategic thinking. It’s a great way to demonstrate that you’re already considering how to contribute to their goals.
