Deputy Head of Operations

Overview

Reporting directly to the Head of Operations, the Deputy Head of Operations will help oversee day-to-day business activities across multiple departments. You will support the planning, coordination, and execution of key operational strategies, ensuring that our systems, processes, and teams are aligned to meet organisational objectives. We are looking for a proactive and strategic thinker with a solid background in operations management.

You should be a confident communicator and proven leader, capable of influencing at all levels and making data-driven decisions.

• Support the Head of Operations in managing core business functions, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and high-quality service delivery.
• Lead operational teams to achieve performance targets and service standards.
• Monitor and analyse key performance indicators (KPIs) to drive continuous improvement.
• Identify and resolve operational issues, streamline processes and implement new systems where appropriate.
• Coordinate cross-departmental projects, ensuring timelines and goals are met.
• Provide leadership, mentoring, and development to team leaders and staff.
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, company policies and best practices.
• Act as a key point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, representing operations in high-level discussions when required.
• Deputise for the Head of Operations in their absence.

University Hospitals of Northamptonshire (UHN) is one of the region's largest employers and is on an ambitious journey of transformation. Across all our divisions, we are focused on modernising services, strengthening our culture, and driving improvements that support safe, high-quality patient care. Our Family Health Division brings together Paediatrics, Neonates, Gynaecology and Maternity Services within a newly formed, forward-looking structure. As a developing Division, we are committed to delivering excellent and sustainable services, supported by strong governance, compassionate leadership, and collaborative teamwork.

• Compassion
• Accountability
• Respect
• Integrity
• Courage

We welcome applications from individuals across all protected groups and are committed to creating an inclusive, collaborative working environment where everyone feels they belong. UHN is proud to recognise the contribution of the Armed Forces community. We have signed the Armed Forces Covenant and achieved the Silver Award under the Armed Forces Employer Recognition Scheme. We also have active staff networks that promote and support colleagues from all backgrounds, ensuring that everyone feels represented, supported and valued across our organisation.

Applications will be transferred to the TRAC system, by completing an application you are giving authorisation for the transfer of your data. Correspondence regarding your application will be sent to you via a TRAC system account. We are an equal opportunities employer, which aims to employ a workforce that reflects the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons from all backgrounds, including those from BME communities and individuals with disabilities who meet the essential criteria.

If you require a reasonable adjustment at any stage of the recruitment process please contact the recruitment services team. Appointments will be made on merit. By submitting an application form, you authorise Kettering General Hospital (KGH) NHS Foundation Trust to confirm any previous NHS service details via ESR IAT processes. If a DBS check is required, applicants may incur DBS costs as described in policy.

News starters may be subject to a probationary period.

Safeguarding is everyone's business. KGH considers safeguarding a priority amongst its citizens and a key value for all employed to the service.

We aim to recruit the best people to deliver our services across the University Hospitals of Northamptonshire, and to promote vacancies to all communities. The Hospital Group encourages applications from people who identify from all protected groups, especially those from BAME, Disabled and LGBTQ+ backgrounds, as these groups are underrepresented in our hospitals.