Operational Manager | Milton Keynes University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

Milton Keynes University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust; Milton Keynes; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare institution in Milton Keynes is looking for an Operational Manager for the Head and Neck Clinical Support Unit. The ideal candidate will have a Level 7 qualification and at least two years' operational management experience. You will lead a high-performing team while engaging with stakeholders to enhance service delivery. The position offers flexible working arrangements in a supportive environment.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Diverse, inclusive culture

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years' experience in operational management.
• Proven experience in service development, human resources, finance and staff management.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams and foster trust.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day operations of the Head and Neck CSU.
• Lead cost-improvement projects to deliver quality improvements.
• Support development of risk management and service improvement initiatives.

Skills

Analytical skills

Service development

Operational management

Communication skills

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Level 7 qualification (MSc, MBA, MA or equivalent)

Job description

Operational Manager – Head and Neck

Department: Surgical Division

Band: 8a pro rata if part-time

Hours: Full time, 37.5 hours per week (flexible working considered).

We are looking for a driven, self‑motivated individual with aspirations of achieving Associate Director status within the next 3‑5 years. You will join a high‑achieving, fast‑paced team with a can‑do attitude, and in partnership with the Clinical Director will manage the Head and Neck Clinical Support Unit (CSU) consisting of Ophthalmology, ENT, Oral Surgery and Orthodontics. Your role will involve analytics, service development and improvement, cost‑efficiency, stakeholder engagement and operational management.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the day‑to‑day operations of the Head and Neck CSU, ensuring service delivery and reporting is effective.
• Engage with key stakeholders at CSU level and across the wider division to improve performance and service delivery.
• Identify and lead cost‑improvement and transformational projects to deliver quality improvements and savings.
• Support the development and implementation of risk management, clinical governance and service improvement initiatives.
• Ensure staff recruitment, retention, appraisal, training and mandatory requirements are satisfied; manage absence and staff expectations.
• Lead business planning, monitor demand and activity, and develop action plans to manage variances.
• Analyse data to inform strategy, monitor performance metrics, and inform financial budget reporting.
• Maintain and enhance relationships with clinical colleagues, staff and external partners, creating an inclusive environment where others can contribute.

Skills & Qualifications

• Level 7 qualification (MSc, MBA, MA or equivalent).
• Minimum 2 years' experience in operational management.
• Strong analytical, conceptual and critical thinking skills.
• Proven experience in service development, human resources, finance and staff management.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, foster trust, diversity and inclusion.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement and collaboration skills.

Location & Working Conditions

Milton Keynes University Hospital – a University Teaching Hospital with a “Good” CQC rating. We offer flexible working arrangements and support a diverse, inclusive culture.

Application Details

Interview date: week commencing 23 November 2025.

Advert closes on Sunday 16 November 2025.

For further information, please refer to the full job description on our website.