At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic professional body and inspire confidence across the occupational therapy profession.
- Company: Join the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, advancing health and social care for over 90 years.
- Benefits: Enjoy a collaborative environment with a strong team and a clear mandate from our members.
- Why this job: Shape the future of occupational therapy while championing diversity and professional excellence.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in organisational growth, strategic transformation, and stakeholder engagement is essential.
- Other info: Be at the forefront of national debates on health equity and workforce capacity.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a dynamic, values-led professional body at a time of great momentum, ambition and possibility.
With a growing membership of over 36,000 and a proud history of advancing occupational therapy for over 90 years, the Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) stands at the forefront of supporting one of the most impactful and human-centred professions in health and social care.
We’re seeking a visionary, energetic and transformational Chief Executive to guide our next strategic chapter. This is a pivotal role needing a leader who can inspire confidence across the profession, represent our members with authority and passion, and make sure the organisation remains resilient, inclusive and forward thinking.
In this role you’ll also lead the British Association of Occupational Therapists, a trade union for the profession. We are looking for a confident and collaborative leader with a proven track record of organisational growth, strategic transformation and people leadership – ideally within a health, social care, education or membership context. Strong commercial acumen, governance expertise and stakeholder engagement skills will be essential.
As the national debate around health equity, professional regulation, and workforce capacity continues to evolve, this role places you at the heart of conversations that will shape the future of occupational therapy.
Our new Chief Executive must be a compelling ambassador who champions the value of occupational therapy, fosters belonging and ensures that the profession’s voice is heard where it matters most – in government, policy, the media and beyond.
You’ll be leading an organisation with a strong, capable and committed team and a clear mandate from our members. As we enter a new strategic planning cycle and transition towards future ready ways of working, your leadership will be crucial in embedding recent transformation, energising colleagues and extending our reach and impact.
If you are a values-driven leader with a passion for advancing professional practice, championing diversity and delivering excellence, we’d be delighted to hear from you.
For a full application pack please use the button below or email our retained consultant, Catherine Whitmore of Memcom Executive via Catherine@memcom.org.uk
Chief Executive employer: Memcom Executive
Contact Detail:
Memcom Executive Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Executive
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the health and social care sectors. Attend relevant conferences or events where you can meet key stakeholders and potential colleagues. Building these connections can provide insights into the role and help you understand the current challenges and opportunities within occupational therapy.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the Royal College of Occupational Therapists thoroughly. Familiarise yourself with their recent initiatives, strategic goals, and the challenges they face. This knowledge will not only prepare you for discussions but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the organisation's mission and values.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to articulate your vision for the future of occupational therapy. Think about how you would address current issues such as health equity and workforce capacity. Being able to present a clear and compelling vision will set you apart as a candidate who is ready to lead and inspire change.
✨Tip Number 4
Engage with current trends and discussions in the field of occupational therapy. Follow relevant publications, join online forums, and participate in discussions on social media. This will not only keep you informed but also allow you to contribute meaningfully to conversations that matter to the profession.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the Chief Executive position. Understand the key responsibilities, required skills, and the values of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists. Tailor your application to reflect how your experience aligns with these aspects.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only highlights your leadership experience but also demonstrates your passion for occupational therapy and commitment to advancing professional practice. Use specific examples from your career to illustrate your achievements and vision for the role.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, focus on showcasing your track record in organisational growth, strategic transformation, and people leadership. Include quantifiable achievements that demonstrate your impact in previous roles, especially within health, social care, or membership organisations.
Showcase Your Values: Since the role requires a values-driven leader, make sure to convey your personal values and how they align with those of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists. This could be through your cover letter or a personal statement, emphasising your commitment to diversity, inclusion, and excellence.
How to prepare for a job interview at Memcom Executive
✨Understand the Organisation's Values
Before your interview, take the time to research the Royal College of Occupational Therapists and its core values. Demonstrating a clear understanding of their mission and how it aligns with your own leadership philosophy will show that you are genuinely invested in the role.
✨Prepare for Strategic Questions
Given the pivotal nature of this role, be ready to discuss your vision for the organisation's future. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully led strategic transformations in previous roles, particularly in health or social care contexts.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Engagement Skills
As a Chief Executive, you'll need to engage with various stakeholders. Be prepared to share experiences where you've effectively communicated and collaborated with diverse groups, including government bodies, members, and the media.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
This role requires a leader who champions diversity. Be ready to discuss how you've fostered inclusive environments in past positions and how you plan to ensure that all voices within the profession are heard and valued.