Director of Strategy & Partnerships

About the role

The Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is seeking a senior leader to join the Board as Director of Strategy & Partnerships. Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, you will shape the strategic direction of health and care services across Cheshire, Merseyside and North Wales.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the development and delivery of the Trust’s strategic vision and long‑term plans.
• Drive partnership initiatives with NHS organisations, local authorities, Welsh Health Boards, voluntary and community sectors.
• Oversee population health strategy, social value creation, sustainability and alignment with the NHS 10‑Year Plan.
• Influence board‑level decisions, champion innovation and ensure the Trust adapts to changing population needs.
• Represent the Trust at regional and system‑level forums, building collaborative relationships to improve health outcomes.

Required profile

• Extensive leadership experience in a complex healthcare, public sector or comparable environment.
• Proven ability to influence at board level and deliver strategic change.
• Strong political acumen and experience working across organisational boundaries.
• Commitment to compassionate leadership and the Trust’s values of being Safe, Kind and Effective.

Required skills

• Strategic planning and execution.
• Partnership development and stakeholder engagement.
• Population health and health‑system integration.
• Evidence‑based decision making and change management.

What we offer

• Opportunity to influence health and care services at scale.
• Board membership with direct impact on regional health strategy.
• Collaborative environment focused on innovation and quality.
• Supportive culture that values staff empowerment and patient outcomes.