Service Manager

The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust; Harlow; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A healthcare organization in West Essex is seeking a Service Manager to lead operations across complex healthcare services. The ideal candidate will demonstrate significant operational management experience, preferably within the NHS, and have a master's level education or equivalent. This role includes driving performance, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with healthcare standards while promoting staff engagement and leading service redesign. Flexible working and development opportunities are offered.

Benefits

Development opportunities

Flexible working

Focus on wellbeing

Qualifications

• Significant operational management experience, including managing large multidisciplinary teams.
• Proven ability to lead service redesign and strategic change.
• Strong understanding of NHS governance, performance targets, and risk management.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day service operations, ensuring safe delivery.
• Drive performance against national and local targets.
• Manage budgets and resources for financial sustainability.
• Lead service redesign and transformation projects.
• Oversee governance and compliance with CQC and NHS standards.
• Champion staff engagement and development.

Skills

Operational management

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Understanding of NHS governance

Education

Master's degree or equivalent experience

Job description

Are you an experienced operational leader with a proven track record in managing complex healthcare services? We are seeking a Service Manager to join our team and play a pivotal role in delivering high-quality, patient-centred care.

We have roles in the following specialities:

• General Surgery / Upper GI, Vascular, Surgical IP Wards
• Adult Emergency Department & Same Day Emergency Care
• Cardiology & Respiratory
• Medical Wards, General Medicine and Palliative Care
• Maternity, Community Maternity and EPU

Our Way Forward

We are implementing a new divisional structure that strengthens accountability, integration, and patient-centred care. This is an exciting time to join us as we embed transformation, break down silos, and create a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. As Service Manager, you will be at the forefront of this change.

As a Service Manager, you will provide strategic and operational leadership across a portfolio of services within the Care Group. Working closely with Clinical Leads, Matrons, and senior managers, you will :

• Lead day-to-day service operations, ensuring safe, efficient, and effective delivery.
• Drive performance against national and local targets, including RTT, UEC, and cancer standards.
• Manage budgets and resources, ensuring financial sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
• Lead service redesign and transformation projects, improving patient flow and pathways.
• Oversee governance, risk management, and compliance with CQC and NHS standards.
• Champion staff engagement and development, fostering a culture of inclusion and excellence.

You will also deputise for the General Manager and take a divisional lead on key projects such as demand and capacity planning, theatre efficiency, and length-of-stay reduction.

The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust (PAHT) is proud to care for the communities of West Essex, delivering safe, compassionate, and high-quality services. We are part of the Neighbourhood Wavea national programme that’s changing how care is delivered by focusing on prevention, early support, and more joined-up services across health, social care, and the voluntary sector.

This means we’re working more closely with local partners to bring care closer to home and support people to live healthier, more independent lives.

We’re a supportive and inclusive organisation that values its people. We offer development opportunities, flexible working, and a strong focus on wellbeing. As a Disability Confident and equal opportunities employer, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences.

Join us and help shape the future of care in West Essex.

What we are looking for:

• Educated to Master’s level or equivalent experience
• Significant operational management experience, including managing large multidisciplinary teams
• Proven ability to lead service redesign and strategic change
• Strong understanding of NHS governance, performance targets, and risk management
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills