Chief of Staff

Job overview

This is a rare opportunity to join the Norfolk & Waveney University Hospitals Group at a defining moment as it continues to grow and develop after its formation in 2025. As part of that growth and development we are excited to be appointing a new Chief of Staff As Chief of Staff, you will work directly alongside the Group Chief Executive, Board and Executive Team, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of one of the largest and most ambitious NHS Groups in the country. This is an influential and highly visible leadership position, offering the opportunity to help drive system-wide transformation, support strategic decision-making and help deliver outstanding care for patients and communities. The role offers exceptional breadth and impact, combining strategic leadership, governance, performance oversight, programme delivery and stakeholder engagement at local, regional and national level. You will help translate ambition into action, ensuring priorities are coordinated, risks are managed and organisational objectives are successfully delivered. Alongside the opportunity to influence healthcare at scale, you will benefit from flexible working, excellent NHS pension provision, career development opportunities and the chance to live and work in Norfolk, a region renowned for its quality of life, innovation and outstanding natural environment.

Main duties of the job

The Chief of Staff serves as the critical link between the Group Chief Executive, the Board and the wider organisation. Reporting at the most senior level, the postholder will lead the Chief Executive's Office, coordinate the business of the Executive Team and Board, and ensure that strategic priorities are translated into effective delivery across the Group. Working across a complex multi-site organisation, the postholder will oversee integrated performance management arrangements, support governance and assurance processes, coordinate high-profile programmes and drive organisational improvement. They will provide expert leadership in managing strategic risks, resolving complex issues and ensuring Board decisions are implemented effectively. The role extends beyond the Group, requiring close collaboration with NHS England, regional partners, local authorities, system stakeholders and national policymakers. The Chief of Staff represents the Group in politically sensitive environments, build consensus across organisations and influence policy, strategy and service development to support the Group's objectives. As such, we are seeking a highly credible leader with significant board-level experience, exceptional political awareness, strong governance expertise and a proven track record of delivering complex change within large healthcare, public sector or similarly complex organisations.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

The Chief of Staff position will ensure priorities remain focused, decisions are translated into action and the Group operates with pace, purpose and accountability. You'll provide strategic leadership across governance, performance, risk management and organisational development. This is a highly influential role where you will:

Drive delivery of the Group's strategic ambitions, ensuring priorities are effectively coordinated and implemented across all hospital sites.

Lead high-profile transformation, improvement and innovation programmes that support better outcomes for patients and communities.

Provide expert advice to the Chief Executive, Board and senior leaders on complex, sensitive and strategically important matters.

Develop and oversee the Group's integrated performance and assurance framework, ensuring clear oversight of delivery, risk and organisational performance.

Build strong relationships with NHS partners, regional and national stakeholders, influencing policy, strategy and system-wide collaboration.

Ensure effective governance and successful implementation of Board and Executive decisions. Lead and develop a high-performing team, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation and continuous improvement.

Above all, you will help ensure that the Group's vision for outstanding, sustainable healthcare becomes a reality, delivering meaningful benefits for patients, staff and communities across Norfolk and Waveney.

Applicant requirements

This post will require a submission for Disclosure to be made to check for any unspent criminal convictions.