255965 R1 (SM) Deputy Associate Director, Infection Prevention & Control

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NHS Scotland is committed to valuing equality, diversity and inclusion within our workforce and eliminating unlawful discrimination. We aim to create a truly representative workforce where every employee is respected, supported and able to give their best.

NHS Lothian provides a comprehensive range of primary, community‑based and acute hospital services to the second‑largest residential population in Scotland (approximately 800,000 people). We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Deputy Associate Director of Infection Prevention & Control (IPC) to provide senior clinical leadership across all NHS Lothian services.

This is a senior clinical leadership role providing expert Infection Prevention & Control advice and direction across acute and community health services. Working closely with multidisciplinary teams, the post holder will play a pivotal role in shaping and delivering IPC strategy, policy and practice, supporting patient safety through the prevention and reduction of healthcare associated infection.

You will be accountable for providing authoritative IPC clinical advice and for making professional judgements that influence:

• Risk assessment and clinical management of patients with transmissible infections
• Infection surveillance, monitoring and reporting
• The maintenance and operation of healthcare facilities
• Education, training and development of staff across all disciplines
• Incident and outbreak management

The post holder will have overall responsibility for promoting and embedding best practice in Infection Prevention & Control across NHS Lothian.

You will hold direct line management responsibility for all substantive band 7 Geographical Leads staff, as well as clinical professional oversight of the wider IPC team (approximately 31 WTE). The postholder will provide senior professional oversight and educational support to the wider IPC nursing service. This role will also deputise for the Associate Director of Infection Prevention & Control when required.

You will be a First Level Registered Nurse with a postgraduate qualification in Infection Prevention & Control, supported by significant and demonstrable experience in this specialist field. A portfolio of evidence demonstrating advanced IPC knowledge and leadership is essential.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• The ability to work effectively across complex, multi‑disciplinary environments
• Evidence of ongoing professional development and commitment to continuous improvement

Travel across NHS Lothian sites is required, therefore a full, valid UK driving licence and access to a car is essential.

This is a permanent, full‑time post, working days Monday to Friday.

• Annual Leave - 35 days including public holidays
• Generous NHS pension scheme
• Annual incremental salary progression
• Paid sick leave increasing with length of service
• N…