Lead Nurse – Trauma, Orthopaedics & Plastic Surgery

About the role

We are seeking a dynamic nursing leader to head the Trauma, Orthopaedics and Plastic Surgery services at the Royal London Hospital, one of the UK’s leading Major Trauma Centres. This 12‑month fixed‑term role offers the chance to shape strategic direction, drive service improvement and maintain a visible clinical presence.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic, professional and operational nursing leadership across orthopaedic and plastic surgery pathways.
• Lead and develop the Clinical Nurse Specialist teams and Trauma Coordinators, ensuring high‑quality, safe patient care.
• Drive quality improvement initiatives, service transformation and governance processes.
• Contribute to divisional and organisational objectives as a member of the senior leadership team.
• Maintain a clinical presence (1‑2 days per week) to support complex trauma coordination and retain frontline credibility.

Required profile

• Registered Nurse with extensive experience in trauma, orthopaedics or plastic surgery.
• Demonstrated leadership experience at Band 7/8 level within the NHS.
• Proven ability to influence strategic decisions and manage multidisciplinary teams.
• Commitment to patient safety, quality improvement and service development.

Required skills

• Clinical governance and risk management.
• Workforce development and staff mentorship.
• Service pathway design and quality improvement methodologies.
• Effective communication with senior stakeholders.

What we offer

• 12‑month fixed‑term contract with exposure to senior leadership.
• Opportunity to influence a world‑leading trauma centre.
• Supportive senior leadership team and professional development resources.