Senior Sister

Job overview

The post holder will have 24-hour responsibility for the safe, effective clinical practice and efficient management of the department/ward. He / she will provide professional, inclusive, inspirational leadership and direction to all members of the team and be professionally accountable for the maintenance of standards of professional practise and care within their department. The post holder is accountable for managing and developing team performance, managing a devolved budget and ensuring efficient and effective use of physical and human resources and will undertake and supervise clinical practice, audit, research and teaching in order to monitor and continuously improve standards of care and patient experience.

Main duties of the job

Professional Accountability

• Adhere to NMC Code, CQC standards, Trust policies, and national guidelines.
• Maintain and update professional competency portfolio; attend mandatory training.
• Lead by example; act as an ambassador and role model for professional behaviour.
• Promote patient-centered care, safe practice, and continuous improvement.

Clinical Leadership

• Provide visible leadership, ensuring high-quality, evidence-based care.
• Maintain safe staffing levels and skill mix; oversee MDT and students.
• Ensure patient safety, infection control, medication management, and risk mitigation.
• Lead reflective learning, root cause analysis, and quality improvement.
• Monitor and audit care standards, outcomes, and nurse-sensitive indicators.

Communication & Collaboration

• Foster a person-centered culture; advocate for patients.
• Communicate effectively with patients, carers, MDT, and senior management.
• Use patient feedback to improve services; promote equality and respect.
• Network across disciplines and contribute to policy/strategy development.

Team & Organisational Management

• Lead appraisals, personal development, and team performance.
• Support staff learning, induction, mentoring, and competency development.
• Manage budgets, resources, staffing, and equipment efficiently.
• Oversee recruitment, sickness management, and compliance with standards.
• Prepare and respond to emergencies (fire, cardiac arrest, incidents).

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Please find attached JD/PS for detailed description of duties and responsibilities.

Overall Focus: Safe, effective, patient-centered care; professional leadership; team development; resource management; continuous quality and service improvement.