Band 6 - Deputy Service Manager, Medicine

Job overview

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a motivated and exceptional Deputy Service Manager to join the  Medicine Division supporting the Dermatology, Neurology and Rheumatology services. This post is for one  full-time role (37.5 hours per week, Monday - Friday) requires a proactive and highly organised individual who embodies the Trust values.

You’ll need excellent interpersonal and communication skills, the ability to meet tight deadlines, and maintain positive working relationships. You’ll collaborate with service leads to address challenges and ensure smooth, efficient service . This position involves working across multiple sites: Watford General Hospital, Hemel Hempstead Hospital, and occasionally St Albans Hospital.

This role requires regular time on site (80%) and cannot be fully remote. The Trust is supportive of flexible working and requests will be considered in line with the needs of the service and working patterns across the team.

Main duties of the job

The successful candidate will work in collaboration with the Service Manager and General Manager  in meeting national waiting time targets, validate the PTL, and identify capacity needs. You’ll provide first-line management for A&C staff in the specialities and work closely with the wider team to enhance patient experience and improve service quality and timeliness. Strong communication, organisational, and advanced IT skills are essential to meet deadlines and targets effectively.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

This role is for  The successful candidate will provide: Operational oversight  By managing day-to-day operational issues in the assigned specialties. Ensuring alignment with departmental policies, procedures, and SOPs. Team Management: Line management of administrative and clerical staff, including recruitment, training, performance management, and appraisals. Performance Monitoring: Tracking performance against key metrics (e.g., PTL, 18-week waits, cancer targets). Identifying gaps in capacity and developing mitigation strategies. Capacity Management: Supporting the Service Manager in maintaining sufficient activity and capacity within services. Adjusting clinic templates and theatre sessions based on service needs.  Staffing and Recruitment: Managing requests for temporary or bank staff within the specialties. Ensuring medical rotas are reviewed and covered adequately in line with the division processes  Complaint and Incident Management: Coordinating responses to PALS complaints and investigations Managing incident records and ensuring proper documentation on systems like DATIX. Financial Engagement: Attending finance meetings to gain experience in financial management for services.  Managerial Support: Providing cover for the Service Manager and assisting the management team when needed. Additional Duties: Performing other tasks as requested by higher management, including ensuring proper cover for medical rotas and additional sessions for junior and consultant doctors.