Head of Quality and Safety – NHS Band 8c (Hybrid)

About the role

This is a senior interim position leading the Quality and Safety Team of an NHS Trust during a key transition period. The role combines strategic leadership with hands‑on management of risk, patient safety, health and safety, clinical audit and regulatory compliance.

Key responsibilities

• Provide leadership and management to a high‑performing Quality and Safety Team.
• Oversee risk, incident, audit and compliance activities in line with Trust standards.
• Lead delivery of the Trust’s Quality Priorities and Quality Account for 2026/27.
• Support and coordinate the Quality and Safety Committee, ensuring robust governance and reporting.
• Contribute expert advice to Clinical Governance, Risk and Safety, and other corporate governance forums.
• Prepare the Trust for external regulatory inspections, including CQC reviews.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives that enhance quality and safety across the organisation.

Required profile

• Significant senior‑level experience in NHS quality, governance, risk, patient safety or clinical governance.
• Proven track record of leading multidisciplinary teams and delivering high‑performance outcomes.
• Strong knowledge of NHS quality frameworks, risk management, patient safety and regulatory requirements.
• Experience supporting Board and Committee governance processes.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement, communication and influencing skills.

Required skills

• Risk management
• Patient safety
• Clinical audit
• Regulatory compliance (CQC)
• Preparation for external inspections