Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

Neonatology Matron

The closing date is 04 February 2026

Job summary

To provide clinical nursing and operational management support to the Neonatal Service in collaboration with the Lead Nurse for Neonatal Services, the Service Lead, and the Clinical Director. Alongside other members of the neonatal management team, develop the neonatal services, deliver the Trust's objectives and meet quality and performance targets, neonatal objectives of the Business Plan, Clinical Governance Plan, the Nursing and Midwifery strategy and patient experience plan.

To be responsible for neonatal unit environment and standards of cleanliness and infection prevention and control. To provide operational management support, clinical leadership and specialist training for the unit coordinators/practitioners.

To lead the neonatal nursing workforce, recruitment and retention strategy. The post holder will deputize for the Lead Nurse for Neonatal Services, and cover for the NICU Matron in Chelsea site, where appropriate.

Main duties of the job

  1. Operational Management
  2. Performance Management
  3. Service Development
  4. Clinical/ Professional Duties
  5. Governance
  6. Staff/ workforce management

About us

Our Trust is one of England's top-performing and safest trusts. We operate two main acute hospital sites--Chelsea and Westminster Hospital and West Middlesex University Hospital--along with award-winning clinics across North West London.

Our nearly 7,500 staff care for a diverse population of 1.5m, providing full clinical services including maternity, A&E and children's services, plus specialist HIV and sexual health care. The CQC rates us Good in safety, effectiveness, care and responsiveness, and Outstanding in leadership and resource use.

We continually invest in our facilities, including a £30m expansion of critical care at Chelsea and an £80m Ambulatory Diagnostic Centre at West Mid.

We are delivering sustainable healthcare through our Green Plan. In line with Greener NHS ambitions, we aim for net zero carbon emissions by 2045. Achieving this requires collective effort. We encourage staff to reduce their impact on carbon, waste and pollution wherever possible. Every action counts to create a healthier, more sustainable future.

We are committed to equal opportunities and believe diversity drives innovation and excellence. We welcome applications from the global majority, veterans and underrepresented communities, valuing the perspectives they bring.

If you haven't heard from us within 3 weeks of the closing date, your application was likely unsuccessful. Employment is subject to a six-month probation.

Some roles may require weekend shifts at multiple sites.

Details

Date posted

23 January 2026

Pay scheme

Agenda for change

Band

Band 8a

Salary

£61,631 to £68,623 a year pa

Contract

Permanent

Working pattern

Full-time

Reference number

289-SC-263

Job locations

West Middlesex Hospital

Twickenham Road

London

TW76AF


Job description

Job responsibilities

1.0 OPERATIONAL MANAGEMENT

1.1 Provide management support for the Neonatal Nursing Team, ensuring the effective day-to-day management, operation and delivery of services of the Unit in line with directorate and Trust corporate objectives.

1.2 Be responsible for the production, implementation and revision of operational policies in Neonatal Services.

1 .4 Maintain and develop a flexible baby and family friendly environment which meets NSF quality standards.

1.5 Responsible for the monitoring of the cleanliness of the department and allied areas undertaking a monthly cleaning audit

1.6 Monitor the implementation of the Trust infection prevention and control policy and its application to the neonatal area. Responding to infection issues and challenges with a coordinated plan.

1.7 Deputize in the absence of the Lead Nurse, and provide senior nursing cover for neonatal services cross-site, as necessary.

1.7 Participate in Senior Nurse On-site Rota for West Middlesex Hospital, including out-of-hours cover, weekends and bank holidays.

2.0 PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT

2.1 Manage expenditure for designated budgets within the neonatal services and take responsibility for initiating corrective action as appropriate, in discussion with, and reporting to the Lead Nurse for Neonatal Services, Service Director, and Clinical Director.

2.2 Play an active role in identifying areas within the neonatal services,where expenditure can be reduced and/or income generated.

2.3 Work with the divisional management team to monitor performance, identify areas for improvement, and implement action plans as agreed with the Lead Nurse for Neonatal Services.

3.0 SERVICE DEVELOPMENT

3.1 Work with the Lead Nurse for Neonatal Services, Service Director, and Clinical Director and management team to lead the Business Planning process for neonatal services. Develop realistic Business Plans, which are reliably delivered within the constraints of cost and time.

3.2 Work with the senior nurses, data coordinators, and information managers in the provision of accurate activity and management information, to support the development and monitoring of the Neonatal Services Business Plan.

3.3 Undertake appropriate projects identified within the Neonatal service with the Lead Nurse for Neonatal Services. This will involve working across the Operational Delivery Network (ODN) and therefore the establishment of constructive working relationships with people outside of the directorate and the Trust is essential. These networks may be internal or external and across different levels within the local health economy.

4.0 GOVERNANCE

4.1 Take responsibility for the initial investigation and co-ordination of incidents and complaints within the neonatal services, working closely with the Lead Nurse for Neonatal Services, Quality and Safety managers, Risk team and complaints team, Patient Advisors.

4.2 Be responsible for effective communication systems within the neonatal services including regular team and departmental briefing.

4.3 Promote the concept of quality within neonatal services and take an active role in Clinical Governance with specific responsibility with engaging support staff within the directorate as part of the multi-disciplinary team. This includes the promotion of clinical risk evaluation, complaints managements, staff development, and evidence based practice and data quality.

5.0 STAFF/ WORKFORCE MANAGEMENT

5.1 Be responsible for effective recruitment, selection and induction of staff within the Neonatal Services, in accordance with the Trusts Recruitment and Selection Procedure.

5.2 Undertake yearly skill mix analysis and establishment review

5.3 Ensure management of sickness absence occurs through the Nursing Team, dealing with cases referred, as appropriate with the Lead Nurse.

5.4 Ensure employee relations issues are dealt with appropriately and in accordance with Trust policies and procedures.

5.5 Co-ordinate annual leave and study leave for nursing staff in neonatal services in order that safe cover is always maintained and agency expenditure is minimized.

5.6 Agreed annual objectives and a PDR with the Lead Nurse.

5.7 Any other duties that may arise, and reasonable task from the Lead Nurse of Neonatal Services.

6.0 CLINICAL/PROFESSIONAL

6.1 Act as a role model for expert practice on the Unit, advising on neonatal nursing care and service provision across disciplines

6.2 Maintain expert clinical skills by regular participation in the clinical care of the neonates and families.

6.3 Regular participation in the clinical co-ordination of the unit, leading clinical shifts.

6.4 Implementation of Trust directive regarding EPR ensuring quality of documentation.

6.5 Undertake regular Documentation Audit

6.6 Facilitate management and leadership development of Band 7 nurses.

6.7 Work closely with the senior nursing team to ensure a coordinated approach to complex care/ palliative care, surgical care and community care management and staff education.

THIS JOB DESCRIPTION MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE IN THE LIGHT OF FUTURE SERVICE DEVELOPMENTS, IN CONSULTATION WITH THE POST HOLDER.

Job description

Job responsibilities

1.0 OPERATIONAL MANAGEMENT

1.1 Provide management support for the Neonatal Nursing Team, ensuring the effective day-to-day management, operation and delivery of services of the Unit in line with directorate and Trust corporate objectives.

1.2 Be responsible for the production, implementation and revision of operational policies in Neonatal Services.

1 .4 Maintain and develop a flexible baby and family friendly environment which meets NSF quality standards.

1.5 Responsible for the monitoring of the cleanliness of the department and allied areas undertaking a monthly cleaning audit

1.6 Monitor the implementation of the Trust infection prevention and control policy and its application to the neonatal area. Responding to infection issues and challenges with a coordinated plan.

1.7 Deputize in the absence of the Lead Nurse, and provide senior nursing cover for neonatal services cross-site, as necessary.

1.7 Participate in Senior Nurse On-site Rota for West Middlesex Hospital, including out-of-hours cover, weekends and bank holidays.

2.0 PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT

2.1 Manage expenditure for designated budgets within the neonatal services and take responsibility for initiating corrective action as appropriate, in discussion with, and reporting to the Lead Nurse for Neonatal Services, Service Director, and Clinical Director.

2.2 Play an active role in identifying areas within the neonatal services,where expenditure can be reduced and/or income generated.

2.3 Work with the divisional management team to monitor performance, identify areas for improvement, and implement action plans as agreed with the Lead Nurse for Neonatal Services.

3.0 SERVICE DEVELOPMENT

3.1 Work with the Lead Nurse for Neonatal Services, Service Director, and Clinical Director and management team to lead the Business Planning process for neonatal services. Develop realistic Business Plans, which are reliably delivered within the constraints of cost and time.

3.2 Work with the senior nurses, data coordinators, and information managers in the provision of accurate activity and management information, to support the development and monitoring of the Neonatal Services Business Plan.

3.3 Undertake appropriate projects identified within the Neonatal service with the Lead Nurse for Neonatal Services. This will involve working across the Operational Delivery Network (ODN) and therefore the establishment of constructive working relationships with people outside of the directorate and the Trust is essential. These networks may be internal or external and across different levels within the local health economy.

4.0 GOVERNANCE

4.1 Take responsibility for the initial investigation and co-ordination of incidents and complaints within the neonatal services, working closely with the Lead Nurse for Neonatal Services, Quality and Safety managers, Risk team and complaints team, Patient Advisors.

4.2 Be responsible for effective communication systems within the neonatal services including regular team and departmental briefing.

4.3 Promote the concept of quality within neonatal services and take an active role in Clinical Governance with specific responsibility with engaging support staff within the directorate as part of the multi-disciplinary team. This includes the promotion of clinical risk evaluation, complaints managements, staff development, and evidence based practice and data quality.

5.0 STAFF/ WORKFORCE MANAGEMENT

5.1 Be responsible for effective recruitment, selection and induction of staff within the Neonatal Services, in accordance with the Trusts Recruitment and Selection Procedure.

5.2 Undertake yearly skill mix analysis and establishment review

5.3 Ensure management of sickness absence occurs through the Nursing Team, dealing with cases referred, as appropriate with the Lead Nurse.

5.4 Ensure employee relations issues are dealt with appropriately and in accordance with Trust policies and procedures.

5.5 Co-ordinate annual leave and study leave for nursing staff in neonatal services in order that safe cover is always maintained and agency expenditure is minimized.

5.6 Agreed annual objectives and a PDR with the Lead Nurse.

5.7 Any other duties that may arise, and reasonable task from the Lead Nurse of Neonatal Services.

6.0 CLINICAL/PROFESSIONAL

6.1 Act as a role model for expert practice on the Unit, advising on neonatal nursing care and service provision across disciplines

6.2 Maintain expert clinical skills by regular participation in the clinical care of the neonates and families.

6.3 Regular participation in the clinical co-ordination of the unit, leading clinical shifts.

6.4 Implementation of Trust directive regarding EPR ensuring quality of documentation.

6.5 Undertake regular Documentation Audit

6.6 Facilitate management and leadership development of Band 7 nurses.

6.7 Work closely with the senior nursing team to ensure a coordinated approach to complex care/ palliative care, surgical care and community care management and staff education.

THIS JOB DESCRIPTION MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE IN THE LIGHT OF FUTURE SERVICE DEVELOPMENTS, IN CONSULTATION WITH THE POST HOLDER.

Person Specification

Education/ Qualification/ Experience/ Skills & Knowledge/ Personal

Essential

  • Registered Nurse (child/adult)
  • Bachelor's Hons Degree /Master's degree or working towards one
  • Post registration qualification - Neonatal intensive care qualification (QIS)
  • Teaching/mentorship qualification
  • NLS Provider certified (UK Resus Council)
  • Leadership / Management Course, i.e. LEO
  • Proven significant neonatal management experience. At least 3 years of experience as a senior nurse manager (Band 7 or higher) in a highly acute Level 2 or 3 Neonatal Unit
  • Wide variety of clinical experience
  • Experience of excellence in leading all/part of a clinical team in practice
  • Experience of developing staff development programmes
  • Proven clinical knowledge linked to area of speciality and excellence in care delivery
  • Proven leadership in clinical area
  • Proven knowledge of safety issues through clinical governance and risk management
  • Excellent communication skills with patients, relatives, staff and external contracts including in challenging situations, demonstrating respect and kindness
  • Able to use negotiation and persuasion skills at high level - patients and staff
  • Able to effectively resolve conflict, and effectively manage conflicting demands in the service
  • Organisation skills - Ability to prioritise and manage time effectively
  • Experience of data collection for quality monitoring/audit
  • Experience of risk management/assessment
  • Knowledge of current challenges and issues in nursing, neonates, and the NHS
  • Commitment to teaching and learning for self and others
  • Commitment to quality initiatives and research
  • Able to present using appropriate tools in different platforms and audience, and deliver the key messages clearly and effectively
  • Computer literate skills
  • Effective role model, demonstrating values of safety, respect, kindness and excellence
  • Enthusiastic and motivated
  • Commitment and passion for neonatal care, and family centred/ integrated care, fostering collaborative partnership in the best interest of the neonate
  • Able to remain calm under pressure
  • Effective team leader - assertive, shows initiative and demonstrates stress management of self and others
  • Demonstrates flexibility for the best interest of the service
  • Possesses Trust PROUD values

Desirable

  • Nurse Practitioner qualification - ENNP/ ANNP
  • Project Management qualification
  • Work experience in neonatal surgical setting
  • Work experience as a Quality and Safety/ Governance sister
Person Specification

Education/ Qualification/ Experience/ Skills & Knowledge/ Personal

Essential

  • Registered Nurse (child/adult)
  • Bachelor's Hons Degree /Master's degree or working towards one
  • Post registration qualification - Neonatal intensive care qualification (QIS)
  • Teaching/mentorship qualification
  • NLS Provider certified (UK Resus Council)
  • Leadership / Management Course, i.e. LEO
  • Proven significant neonatal management experience. At least 3 years of experience as a senior nurse manager (Band 7 or higher) in a highly acute Level 2 or 3 Neonatal Unit
  • Wide variety of clinical experience
  • Experience of excellence in leading all/part of a clinical team in practice
  • Experience of developing staff development programmes
  • Proven clinical knowledge linked to area of speciality and excellence in care delivery
  • Proven leadership in clinical area
  • Proven knowledge of safety issues through clinical governance and risk management
  • Excellent communication skills with patients, relatives, staff and external contracts including in challenging situations, demonstrating respect and kindness
  • Able to use negotiation and persuasion skills at high level - patients and staff
  • Able to effectively resolve conflict, and effectively manage conflicting demands in the service
  • Organisation skills - Ability to prioritise and manage time effectively
  • Experience of data collection for quality monitoring/audit
  • Experience of risk management/assessment
  • Knowledge of current challenges and issues in nursing, neonates, and the NHS
  • Commitment to teaching and learning for self and others
  • Commitment to quality initiatives and research
  • Able to present using appropriate tools in different platforms and audience, and deliver the key messages clearly and effectively
  • Computer literate skills
  • Effective role model, demonstrating values of safety, respect, kindness and excellence
  • Enthusiastic and motivated
  • Commitment and passion for neonatal care, and family centred/ integrated care, fostering collaborative partnership in the best interest of the neonate
  • Able to remain calm under pressure
  • Effective team leader - assertive, shows initiative and demonstrates stress management of self and others
  • Demonstrates flexibility for the best interest of the service
  • Possesses Trust PROUD values

Desirable

  • Nurse Practitioner qualification - ENNP/ ANNP
  • Project Management qualification
  • Work experience in neonatal surgical setting
  • Work experience as a Quality and Safety/ Governance sister

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

UK Registration

Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).

Additional information

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

UK Registration

Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).

Employer details

Employer name

Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

Address

West Middlesex Hospital

Twickenham Road

London

TW76AF


Employer's website

https://www.chelwest.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)

Employer details

Employer name

Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

Address

West Middlesex Hospital

Twickenham Road

London

TW76AF


Employer's website

https://www.chelwest.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)

Employer contact details

For questions about the job, contact:

Lead Nurse for Neonatal Services

Oscar Soliven

oscar.soliven@nhs.net

07721843608

Details

Date posted

23 January 2026

Pay scheme

Agenda for change

Band

Band 8a

Salary

£61,631 to £68,623 a year pa

Contract

Permanent

Working pattern

Full-time

Reference number

289-SC-263

Job locations

West Middlesex Hospital

Twickenham Road

London

TW76AF


Supporting documents

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