Principal Private Secretary to the Secretary of State

The Principal Private Secretary (PPS) occupies a pivotal leadership position at the heart of the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), supporting the Secretary of State in delivering a bold and ambitious agenda for health and care transformation. The PPS is responsible for ensuring that the department’s strategic priorities such as prevention, digital innovation, workforce reform, and long‑term sustainability are embedded in the daily work of the Private Office and across the wider Parliamentary intelligence and Private Office Group.

As PPS, you will provide high-quality, proactive support to the Secretary of State, balancing immediate demands with a clear focus on the department’s long‑term objectives. You will play a central role in shaping the department’s direction, anticipating opportunities and risks, and working collaboratively with colleagues to resolve complex issues. The role requires you to champion the department’s transformation agenda, supporting the integration of NHS England into DHSC and helping to create a leaner, more agile, enabling centre that empowers local systems and encourages innovation to meet the specific needs of communities.

You will be expected to build and maintain strong relationships with ministers, special advisers, the newly established Joint Executive Team, policy teams, No 10, HM Treasury, Cabinet Office, other Whitehall private offices, and the wider health and care system. This collaborative approach is essential to foster collective responsibility for shared objectives, break down silos, and support the delivery of coordinated care.

As a visible leader, you will inspire and manage a diverse team of around 70 staff, including the Secretary of State’s office, junior ministerial offices, and the Parliamentary and Intelligence Function. You will promote a high-performing, inclusive, and supportive culture, ensuring that staff are respected and empowered to deliver results and develop their careers. The PPS is also responsible for overseeing the delivery of ministerial priorities, including parliamentary business, visits, speeches, and engagement with external partners. You will ensure that the department’s work is aligned with the 10 Year Health Plan and other key government commitments, upholding the highest standards of governance, transparency, and value for money.

Supporting the Secretary of State and senior leaders in delivering outcomes that matter to patients and citizens, you will help ensure the department operates with clarity, efficiency, and focus. To succeed in this role, you will need to demonstrate exceptional leadership, sound judgement, and the ability to work flexibly and decisively in a fast‑moving environment with competing priorities. You will be personally resilient, confident in challenging and supporting stakeholders at all levels, and committed to diversity, inclusion, and the development of high‑performing teams. Your communication skills both written and verbal will be of the highest standard, enabling you to tailor information to a wide range of audiences and represent the department with credibility and authority.