Lead Specialist

This is an excellent opportunity to lead on a range of programmes/change and implementation projects in NHSBT's Plasma Directorate which is responsible for supplying plasma to be used in the manufacture of medicines that will help save and improve the lives of thousands of people with life-limiting conditions. You will own several process and product development lifecycles from the discovery phase through analysis, adoption, development, implementation and post market surveillance, delivering projects on time and to budget, operating independently but with support and guidance from colleagues with whom you will work.

As a subject matter expert for plasma, you will lead on the delivery of major, complex and high impact projects and change programmes on time to budget, for the Plasma Directorate and wider NHSBT. You will play a key role in supporting Plasma's strategic aim to deliver sufficient plasma supplies that will enable the UK to achieve an initial 20% self-sufficiency in plasma medicines by and thereafter to increase sufficiency over time through innovation and optimisation.

Main duties of the job include:

• Acting as subject matter expert and lead on service and product development within Plasma.
• Evaluating and generating innovative ideas, supporting and contributing to the development of strategy and improved service delivery.
• Leading on a range of programmes/change and implementation projects addressing standardisation, new ways of working, introduction of new technology, service and product development and improved performance.
• Providing expert advice on standards and specifications for systems, processes, consumables and equipment and leading on evaluation and procurement processes.
• Developing expertise and providing the primary point of contact for internal and external agencies within Plasma, supporting the operation in the maintenance of quality.
• Maintaining a thorough working knowledge of practices, procurement, licensing and regulatory requirements in all areas associated with Plasma collection, manufacture and bulk distribution.
• Deputising for Technical and Transformation Manager as and when required.

About You:

Experience and Knowledge:

• Knowledge of change management and service redesign.
• Experience of setting objectives for direct reports and undertaking performance reviews.
• Experienced in managing projects and delivering change.
• Experience in risk management, process qualification and change control.
• Developed scientific and technical knowledge and understanding of plasma and plasma for medicine supply chain, and well informed regarding new developments.
• Expert knowledge in at least one of the following areas: Plasma, Manufacturing (e.g. of Blood Components, Tissue, Stem Cells etc), Hospital Services, Blood Donation Technology, Testing – Microbiology/Virology, Testing – Blood Grouping/Serology, Quality Monitoring and other similar areas of work.
• Thorough understanding of Good Manufacturing Practice, Good Laboratory Practice, Operational Improvement and Total Quality Management.

Qualifications And Training:

• Masters' level qualification or equivalent relevant professional qualifications or demonstrable knowledge and experience to Masters level.
• Evidence of commitment to continuing professional development.
• Demonstrates commitment to own continued professional development (CPD).

About Us:

It takes all types of people to deliver the kind of service that saves and improves lives. At NHS Blood and Transplant, you'll join a team of more than 6,000 people who are making a genuine difference to communities, families, friends, relatives and more across the UK. We play a unique and special role in the NHS by helping people do something extraordinary - donate blood, blood products, organs, tissues, or stem cells to save someone in need.

Our three core values are what set us apart. They guide and inspire everything we do. By being caring, expertly meeting the needs of our patients and our people, and accepting nothing less than the best quality, we can do extraordinary work – and help our people to do something extraordinary in their career, too.

What We Offer:

• NHSBT promotes flexible working opportunities where the role will allow.
• 27 days annual leave (pro rata for part-time) plus Bank Holidays, increasing to 29 days after 5 years' service and to 33 days after 10 years.
• NHS pension scheme.
• Further details and outline of benefits can be found at: [link].

We've fostered a culture of continuous learning where colleagues are well-led, engaged, and encouraged to grow. We support you in reaching your full potential, both in your current role and future career. Our Thrive program embodies our commitment to learning and development, offering a wide range of activities to support your personal and professional growth.

This vacancy will close at 23:59 on 16th November 2025. Interviews are anticipated to be held on w/c 1st December 2025 – subject to confirmation.