Deputy Head of Operations
The closing date is 17 February 2026
Job summary
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.
This is a hands-on, leadership role that demands a strong operational mindset, excellent people management skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
Main duties of the job
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.
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Support the Head of Operations in managing core business functions, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and high-quality service delivery.
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Lead operational teams to achieve performance targets and service standards.
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Monitor and analyse key performance indicators (KPIs) to drive continuous improvement.
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Identify and resolve operational issues, streamline processes and implement new systems where appropriate.
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Coordinate cross-departmental projects, ensuring timelines and goals are met.
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Provide leadership, mentoring, and development to team leaders and staff.
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Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, company policies and best practices.
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Act as a key point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, representing operations in high-level discussions when required.
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Deputise for the Head of Operations in their absence
About us
**Please submit your application as soon as possible as we reserve the right to close any adverts before the closing date once we have received sufficient applications**
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.
Our Excellence Values
- 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.
Details
Date posted
04 February 2026
Pay scheme
Agenda for change
Band
Band 8c
Salary
£76,965 to £88,682 a year per annum pro rata
Contract
Secondment
Working pattern
Full-time, Part-time, Job share, Flexible working
Reference number
264-7781039-FAM
Job locations
University Hospitals of Northamptonshire
Kettering / Northampton
NN16 8UZ
Employer details
Employer name
Kettering General Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Address
University Hospitals of Northamptonshire
Kettering / Northampton
NN16 8UZ
Employer's website
https://www.kgh.nhs.uk/working-for-us (Opens in a new tab)
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Employer contact details
For questions about the job, contact:
Supporting documents
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