KMPN Head of Quality Risk and Governance

Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust; Ashford; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent NHS Trust in Ashford is seeking a Head of Quality, Risk and Governance to lead quality assurance and manage risks within the Kent and Medway Pathology Network. You will develop a comprehensive governance framework and provide oversight to existing quality management teams. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in quality management in healthcare and demonstrate strong leadership skills. The role offers a comprehensive benefits package, including generous annual leave and NHS Pension Scheme membership.

Benefits

27 days of annual leave plus public holidays

Membership in NHS Pension Scheme

Additional benefits available

Qualifications

• Experience in quality assurance within health care.
• Strong understanding of governance and risk management frameworks.
• Ability to lead and manage diverse teams effectively.

Responsibilities

• Oversee quality and governance for the Kent and Medway Pathology Network.
• Develop oversight and reporting frameworks for pathology laboratories.
• Manage quality management teams and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

Skills

Leadership in quality management

Risk management

Governance frameworks

Health and safety oversight

Education

Relevant degree in health or management

Job description

The Kent and Medway Pathology Network Head of Quality, Risk and Governance is a new role that will be responsible for the quality assurance, risk management, and governance within the new Kent and Medway Pathology Network (KMPN) joint venture. They will be held accountable by the network partner Trusts via a joint oversight and governance process. The postholder will support the broader network leadership team to develop a single oversight and reporting framework for the existing pathology laboratories, which currently operate under separate governance processes. This will ensure an effective joint system of quality governance is in place, which fully meets legislative and regulatory requirements. They will also represent health and safety in the network leadership team, ensuring oversight and escalation of health and safety risks, issues, and management.

The post holder will provide leadership and oversight of all aspects of the quality and governance agenda for the Network and will be responsible for ensuring that there is a robust integrated governance, safety and risk management infrastructure in place. They will manage the existing quality management teams, including three direct reports. This role provides an exciting opportunity for an experienced quality management professional to design and lead a new function across a maturing pathology network.

Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust ranks among the top 10 NHS Trusts nationwide and was named the second‑best Trust to work for in the South East in the 2023 and 2024 NHS Staff Survey. We are a large acute hospital trust in south‑east England, providing general hospital services and specialist care to around 600,000 residents in West Kent and East Sussex. With a dedicated and diverse team of over 8,000 staff we are proud to offer specialised cancer services to over two million people through the Kent Oncology Centre.

Fordcombe Hospital, near Tunbridge Wells, became part of the Trust in October 2024. Specialising in planned care, it offers two operating theatres, 28 inpatient and day‑care beds, diagnostic services (X‑ray, MRI, CT, and endoscopy), and consultation/treatment rooms.

Looking for flexible working? We are a flexible working‑friendly organisation. Whether it’s adjusting your hours or exploring other flexible arrangements, we want to work with you to find the best solution for you, our patients, and the Trust. Talk to us about how we can accommodate your working needs.

Joining Us Includes a Comprehensive Benefits Package

• At least 27 days of annual leave plus public/bank holidays (pro‑rata for part‑time staff).
• Membership in the NHS Pension Scheme, with an employer contribution of 23.7% and life assurance benefits.
• Blue Light card eligibility.
• And more, additional benefits can be found in the benefits documents below.

For further details / informal visits contact:
Name: Kunmi Johnson
Job title: Workforce Project Director
Email address: [e-mail]