Head of Risk Management - NHS

Location: Cambridgeshire

Head of Risk Management - NHS organisation Band 8a – Agenda for Change 3-6 month fixed-term contract Full-time, 37.5 hours per week An NHS organisation is seeking an experienced Head of Risk Management for an initial 3-6 month fixed-term contract. This is a senior leadership opportunity to act as the organisation’s principal specialist adviser on risk management, working closely with the Board, Executive Team, clinical leaders and senior managers.

You will lead the continued development of the organisation’s Risk Management Framework and ensure risks are identified, assessed, escalated and managed effectively across a large and complex healthcare environment. As Head of Risk Management, you will:
Lead the development and continuous improvement of organisation-wide risk management systems, policies and processes. Oversee the Corporate Risk Register and ensure an effective interface with the Board Assurance Framework. Provide authoritative advice to the Board, Executive Team and senior leaders on complex risk and governance matters. Review directorate risk registers, identify organisational themes and challenge the quality and grading of risks where required.

Produce high-quality reports and briefings for the Board, Executive Leadership Team and relevant committees. Lead risk assurance reviews and ensure agreed actions are progressed through to completion. Manage the Risk Management Team and oversee the organisation’s risk management system and reporting. Develop and deliver risk management training in partnership with Learning and Development colleagues. Promote a positive, proactive risk culture in which accountability is embedded across operational and corporate teams.

Maintain expert knowledge of regulatory requirements, emerging risks and recognised risk management standards. The successful candidate will operate with considerable autonomy and will be expected to challenge existing practice, influence senior stakeholders and shape short, medium and long-term risk priorities. You will bring:
Significant risk management experience gained within a large and complex organisation. Practical experience of developing and embedding corporate risk management frameworks. Strong knowledge of risk registers, Board Assurance Frameworks, assurance processes and corporate governance. The credibility and confidence to advise and influence Board members, executives and senior managers.

Experience of managing teams, setting objectives and developing organisational capability. Excellent written communication skills, including experience of producing comprehensive reports for senior audiences. Highly developed analytical, negotiation, facilitation and stakeholder management skills. The ability to manage complex and competing priorities in a high-pressure environment. A relevant master’s-level qualification or equivalent senior-level experience in NHS risk management. A formal risk management qualification would be advantageous.

This role offers the chance to take ownership of a strategically important function and strengthen how risk is understood, reported and managed across a complex NHS organisation. You will join at a critical time and provide immediate senior leadership across corporate risk, assurance and governance. Apply now to be considered for this 3–6-month Band 8a fixed-term contract.