Chief Operating Officer in London

The London Ambulance Service NHS Trust plays a critical role at the heart of the capital’s health and care system. Serving more than nine million people across one of the world’s most complex and diverse cities, our teams respond to thousands of emergency and urgent care calls every day, working in partnership to keep Londoners safe. Our ambition is to deliver outstanding emergency and urgent care for a world-class city, underpinned by our values of Caring, Respect and Teamwork.

We are now seeking an exceptional Chief Operating Officer to join our Trust Board and Executive Leadership Team at a pivotal point in our journey. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, this newly created post is a senior, voting executive role with responsibility for the leadership, delivery and continuous development of all operational services across the Trust. This role will draw together the 999, 111 and ambulance operations portfolios together and lead on the effective delivery of programmes and projects that support operational performance and transformation.

The Chief Operating Officer will provide highly visible, inclusive and inspiring leadership to a workforce in excess of 5,000 staff, supported by a fleet of more than 1,000 vehicles operating from approximately 65 locations across London. You will champion a professional, open and compassionate culture that empowers people to perform at their best, while maintaining a relentless focus on quality of care, patient safety, operational performance and value for money.

Working closely with executive colleagues, you will ensure the Trust consistently meets its operational, statutory, financial and health and safety responsibilities, while continuing to raise clinical and service standards. As a full member of the Board, you will play a central role in shaping and delivering the Trust’s strategy, translating ambition into clear, achievable operational plans and assuring delivery through robust performance and governance arrangements.

You will work in close partnership with system leaders across London, including NHS organisations, local authorities and the emergency services, to strengthen collaboration, improve patient flow and support effective responses during periods of system-wide pressure. You will also hold Board level responsibility for emergency preparedness, business continuity and resilience, ensuring the Trust fulfils its duties under the Civil Contingencies Act.

We are looking for a senior operational leader with ambulance service experience and a strong track record of delivering complex services at scale, either from within the NHS or an international health system. While you may be either an established or aspirant executive, you will bring credibility at Board level, sound financial and operational judgement, and the confidence to lead through challenge and change. Above all, you will share our commitment to public service, equality and inclusion, and to leading with integrity, compassion and purpose.

This is a rare and demanding opportunity to make a tangible difference to the lives of millions of Londoners. If you are motivated by challenge, inspired by service, and ready to lead at the highest level, then please contact Thomas Patterson, Managing Director or Pascal Heward, Consultant on +44 7718 119 454 or pascal.heward@alumniglobal.com.