Job requirements
Essential
14 listedRequirements the employer expects applicants to meet.
- Knowledge
Extensive knowledge and experience of the application of corporate governance and law in a practical setting.
- Experience
Significant experience working in a senior role in corporate governance.
- Experience
Knowledge and experience associated with NHS specific provisions, structures and social care policies.
- Experience
Experience of oversight and supervision of junior lawyers.
- Experience
Line management responsibilities at a senior level.
- Experience
Team Management.
- Experience
Excellent organisational and analytical skills.
- Experience
Excellent communication skills.
- Experience
Expert in influencing, negotiating and interpersonal skills.
- Experience
Ability to analyse and interpret data and information at an advanced level.
- Experience
Ability to write complex reports at a senior level, including Board level.
- Experience
Strategic skills and experience of application, to support with design and implementation of strategy and strategic initiatives.
- Qualifications
Masters degree in relevant subject (or equivalent level).
- Qualifications
Corporate governance qualification (or equivalent experience).
Desirable
6 listedAdditional qualities the employer would prefer.
- Knowledge
Expert knowledge of systems and processes relating to the management of the Coronial process, litigation and claims management.
- Knowledge
Expert awareness and application of Data protection and confidentiality, Human Rights Act, Mental Health Act and Health and Safety Law.
- Experience
Expertise in one or more legal disciplines.
- Experience
Experience in healthcare law, coronial law and court of protection proceedings.
- Qualifications
Qualified practising Solicitor/Barrister/Legal Executive.
- Qualifications
Chartered Secretariat qualification.
Job summary
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: 37.5 hours per week (Monday - Friday)
Grade: Band 8c
Base: Across site working, between Queen Alexandra Hospital, Portsmouth and St Mary's Hospital, Isle of Wight.
Main duties of the job
We are seeking an exceptional governance professional to join our Corporate Governance Directorate as Head of Corporate Secretariat and Legal. This is a high-profile leadership role providing strategic oversight of the Board Secretariat and Legal Services functions across the Group, supporting both Isle of Wight NHS Trust and Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust.
Reporting to the Group Director of Corporate Governance, you will lead a team responsible for delivering high-quality corporate governance and legal services, ensuring the Trusts meet their statutory, regulatory and legal obligations while supporting effective decision-making at Board and Executive level.
About us
Working as a partnership, both Isle of Wight NHS Trust and Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust have a shared vision for excellence in care for our patients and communities; with a set of strategic aims underpinning how we will achieve this.
The single corporate service is delivered across both organisation.You may be based at either IWT or PHU and individuals may be required to undertake business travel between sites. For leaders managing staff across multi-site locations, you will need to be visible and provide in person leadership. The arrangements and frequency will be agreed locally.
Details
- Date posted: 15 September 2026
- Pay scheme: Agenda for change
- Band: Band 8c
- Salary: £79,504 to £91,609 a year
- Contract: Permanent
- Working pattern: Full-time
- Reference number: REF2610M
- Job locations: Queen Alexandra Hospital, Southwick Hill Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO6 3LY, United Kingdom, St Mary's Hospital, Parkhurst Road, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 5TG, United Kingdom
Job responsibilities
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced senior leader with substantial expertise in corporate governance, excellent influencing and stakeholder management skills, and the ability to operate confidently in a complex and highly regulated environment. You will work closely with Executive and Non-Executive Directors, providing expert advice on governance matters, leading strategic initiatives, and driving continuous improvement across the function.
The successful candidate will bring significant experience in a senior corporate governance role, strong leadership and team management capabilities, and a proven track record of delivering complex governance programmes. A relevant Masters' degree (or equivalent experience) and a corporate governance qualification are essential. Legal qualifications and healthcare law experience would be advantageous.
In return, we offer the opportunity to make a significant contribution to the leadership and governance of two major NHS organisations, working alongside senior leaders to shape best practice, strengthen assurance and support the delivery of outstanding patient care.
If you are a strategic, collaborative and forward-thinking leader who is passionate about governance excellence, we would welcome your application.
Please see the Job Descriptionfor further role responsibilities.
Closing date: Monday 21st September 2026
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Applying for this NHS job
This advert is for Head of Corporate Secretariat and Legal with Isle of Wight NHS Trust in Newport, England. It is listed as a Band 8 Head (discipline unspecified) role. The advertised salary is £79504.00 to £91609.00. The contract type is Permanent. The application deadline is 21 Sep 2026.
Before you apply, compare the job description with the person specification and mirror the employer's essential criteria in your supporting information. Use the vacancy title, employer, location, salary, contract type, closing date and posted date (15 Sep 2026) to decide whether this role fits your current NHSjob search. If the employer can close applications early, prepare the application before the stated deadline rather than waiting for the final day.
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