We are working in partnership with a leading Acute NHS Trust in the Midlands to appoint an exceptional Interim Deputy Chief Operating Officer (COO). This critical senior leadership position will support the Trust’s operational agenda with a sharp focus on the Elective and Cancer pathways, leading high-performing teams to deliver safe, effective, and sustainable services.
This is a Band 9 fixed-term opportunity for 6 months, with the Trust seeking an immediate start.
About the Role
- Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer and working as a key member of the senior leadership team, the Deputy COO will:
- Take operational leadership responsibility across clinical services, with a focus on Elective and Cancer performance'
- Lead on the delivery of national performance targets, including cancer waiting times and RTT standards;
- Oversee and improve outpatient and theatre productivity, ensuring effective use of resources and delivery of financial sustainability;
- Lead the Trust’s daily operational grip, ensuring strong processes for patient flow, bed capacity, risk management, and service resilience;
- Drive compliance with NHSE, CQC, and regulatory standards, embedding governance and assurance processes;
- Actively contribute to Trust-wide leadership as part of the Corporate Directors Group;
- Deputise for the Chief Operating Officer, assuming executive-level responsibilities during periods of absence;
- Support cross-system collaboration with other providers and commissioners to improve access, quality, and patient experience.
Key Requirements- The Trust are seeking an experienced and credible NHS operational leader with:
- A Master’s-level qualification or equivalent senior management experience;
- Substantial experience at senior operational level within an acute NHS environment;
- Proven success in elective and cancer service improvement, pathway redesign, and performance recovery;
- Track record of leading large, multidisciplinary teams within a complex performance management culture;
- Experience in financial oversight, including budget delivery, CIP programmes, and activity planning;
- Strong grasp of national NHS policy, operational planning, and assurance frameworks;
- Resilience, visibility, and the ability to lead under pressure in a demanding environment.
Why Apply?- Strategic senior-level exposure at the heart of NHS operational delivery;
- Immediate start for a high-impact leadership role;
- Be part of a Trust committed to high-quality patient care and transformation.
If you are interested in the role, please email Toni Coates with a copy of your updated CV to toni.coates@finegreen.co.uk along with your availability and rate understanding in line with the above.