Chief Digital Information Officer

Job overview

Sheffield Health Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust is a leading provider of mental health services, Learning Disabilities, and specialist services and a range of specialist services committed to delivering high-quality care that reflects our core values of Innovation, improvement and inclusion. We are seeking a visionary and strategic leader to join our team as Chief Digital and Information Officer (CDIO).

The Chief Digital Information Officer (CDIO) will lead the Trust’s digital strategy, driving innovation to improve lives across Sheffield. Key priorities include modernising digital systems, enhancing cybersecurity, leading the adoption of new technologies including artificial intelligence and data analytics, reducing digital exclusion, and embedding data-driven decision-making. The role is central to achieving the Trust’s strategic goals and requires a visionary leader with expertise in digital strategy and stakeholder collaboration.

Main duties of the job

The new CDIO needs to be more than a technology expert - they need to be a forward-thinking leader capable of shaping the future digital direction of Sheffield Health Partnership University, and it is essential they bring the vision and experience to develop a long-term strategy, while also working seamlessly with the senior leadership team across all areas of the organisation. Driving cultural change within Digital and aligning it with the wider goals of the Trust will be key to your success. The right candidate could attend the Executive Management Team and Board as part of their development. They will be advising and working with EMT and Board and play a lead role in the development and delivery of the strategy.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of the Trust’s Digital Strategy.
• Oversee IT operations, infrastructure, service desk, and cyber security.
• Champion digital transformation across clinical and non-clinical services.
• Ensure compliance with data protection legislation and NHS digital standards.
• Provide expert advice to the Board on digital innovation, data quality, and information governance.
• Manage multi-million-pound budgets and lead procurement of IT systems.
• Develop and implement an AI strategy for health innovation.
• Represent the Trust in regional and national digital forums.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Essential Criteria

• Senior-level experience in NHS IT/Informatics.
• Proven success in leading complex digital programmes and change initiatives.
• Strong knowledge of healthcare IT systems, including systems like RiO.
• Expertise in data privacy, cyber security, and business continuity planning.
• Experience managing large budgets and procurement processes.
• Professional qualifications such as PMP, CISSP, or CGEIT.

Desirable

• Higher-level degree in ICT or healthcare-related discipline.
• Experience working to national NHS digital agendas.