Public Health Principal in Milton Keynes

We’re recruiting a Public Health Principal to join our Public Health team at Milton Keynes City Council, as part of a shared service with Bedford Borough Council and Central Bedfordshire Council. Reporting to the Head of Public Health Programmes, you will provide strategic leadership across a portfolio that includes public mental health, suicide prevention, and prevention and early intervention. This senior specialist role draws on your expertise in using data, evidence and insight to ensure interventions are targeted where they will make the greatest difference and improve outcomes for the population of Milton Keynes and across our shared service footprint. The post works closely with colleagues across the council, partner agencies including the NHS, businesses, and residents to reduce health inequalities and address the wider determinants of health, prioritising those with the greatest level of need. This is a site-based role, and you’ll be expected to work from the designated workplace.

Main Responsibilities

• Lead the strategic development and implementation of public health programmes across a defined portfolio, including public mental health and suicide prevention.
• Influence and work with partners across local authorities, health and the voluntary and community sector to prioritise and invest in prevention.
• Provide highly specialist public health advice to support the interpretation and implementation of national policy at local level.
• Support commissioning activity by providing public health expertise at all stages, from planning through to evaluation.
• Manage public health budgets to ensure interventions are evidence based and deliver value for money.
• Line manage a Public Health Practitioner and support their development to ensure effective delivery of key initiatives.

Ideal Candidate / Qualifications

• A Master’s degree in Public Health or a relevant Master’s level qualification, or equivalent professional experience.
• Strong knowledge of public health principles, health inequalities and the wider determinants of health.
• Experience of using population health data and evidence to shape strategy and demonstrate impact.
• The ability to analyse, interpret and present complex data to inform decision making.
• Proven skills in partnership working, influence and system leadership.
• Experience of managing projects, programmes and competing priorities.
• Line management experience and the ability to support colleagues within a shared service environment.

Requirements

• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle. If offered the role, evidence of driving licence and vehicle insurance (including business use) will be requested. Appointment cannot be confirmed until documents are received.

Package & Benefits

• Great holiday benefits – 28 days annual leave, rising to 32 days after five years, plus a holiday purchase scheme for up to 5 additional days per year.
• Excellent pension – Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Family friendly policies including enhanced maternity, adoption and paternity support and a childcare subsidy.
• Employee benefits programme including health cash plan, bike purchase scheme, discounts on entertainment and travel.
• Salary sacrifice car scheme – low-cost leasing of electric and low emission vehicles.
• Blue Light Card – additional discounts for those in social care.