Service Manager(UK Visa Sponsorship)
Job Description
About the role
This is a senior operational leadership opportunity within a world-renowned children’s hospital. As Service Manager for Cleft, Craniofacial & Plastic Surgery, you will oversee the day-to-day running and performance of a complex specialist service, ensuring safe, efficient pathways that keep children and families at the centre of every decision.
You will help cultivate a culture of continuous improvement across the Sight & Sound Directorate — translating strategy into practical change, supporting staff, and improving access, flow, and outcomes. The role suits an experienced NHS manager who thrives in fast-moving environments, balances competing priorities calmly, and leads with empathy and clarity.
What you’ll be responsible for
Operational leadership
- Direct the daily delivery of specialist surgical services, maintaining quality, safety, and performance standards
- Coordinate multidisciplinary teams to ensure effective patient flow and service continuity
- Monitor activity, waiting times, and performance metrics, implementing improvements where needed
Service improvement & transformation
- Lead change initiatives that improve patient experience and operational efficiency
- Support business planning and contribute to service development proposals
- Identify cost improvement opportunities while safeguarding quality of care
People & culture
- Manage, develop, and motivate teams in a high-pressure clinical environment
- Foster open communication and collaborative working
- Champion inclusive, patient-centred values
Governance & accountability
- Maintain compliance with NHS standards and reporting requirements
- Use data to inform decisions and performance discussions
- Support audit, review, and continuous learning
What we’re looking for
Essential background
- Degree-level education or equivalent operational healthcare experience
- Evidence of ongoing professional development
- Substantial NHS operational management experience (Band 7 or equivalent)
- Experience leading teams and delivering service change
- Budget management and cost improvement exposure
- Understanding of national access and waiting-time standards
Desirable
- Postgraduate management or leadership qualification
- Project or programme management training
Core capabilities
- Strong organisational and prioritisation skills
- Clear written and verbal communication
- Confident handling complex or sensitive situations
- Analytical thinking and data interpretation
- Working knowledge of NHS digital systems
- Ability to innovate and solve operational challenges
Working environment & culture
The organisation is committed to fairness, diversity, and inclusion. Recruitment decisions are based solely on merit and capability. Applications are encouraged from people of all backgrounds, including disabled candidates and under-represented communities. Staff networks support inclusion, wellbeing, and shared learning across the Trust.
Safeguarding & eligibility
This post involves regular contact with vulnerable children. Appointment is subject to a satisfactory criminal record check under the Rehabilitation of Offenders legislation. Skilled Worker visa applicants are welcome and will be assessed alongside all candidates.
Why this role matters
You will directly influence how a nationally recognised surgical service runs — improving access, supporting staff, and helping children receive world-class care. It’s a leadership role with visible impact, autonomy, and scope to shape service delivery in a specialist setting.
Useful UK Government & Regulatory Links
- Disclosure and Barring Service guidance (safeguarding checks)
- Skilled Worker visa information for applicants:
- NHS Constitution — rights and standards in care delivery
- Equality Act protections in employment
- Working in the NHS — employment overview
