Interim Chief Operating Officer (COO) | South East
Castlefield are delighted to be supporting an NHS Trust with the recruitment of an interim COO. You will play a central role in shaping and delivering our strategic priorities. You will drive improvements in patient outcomes, quality, operational performance, and financial sustainability, while modelling behaviours that embed inclusion, diversity, and our organisational values.
Key areas of Focus
As an Executive you will be instrumental in improving A&E performance. Delivering against national targets for planned care recovery and diagnostics. In addition, you will focus on improvements to Cancer performance and pathways, especially the KPI's relating to waiting times within Cancer
Key Responsibilities
- Provide strategic and operational leadership as a full member of the Trust Board
- Lead day‑to‑day operational performance across the Trust
- Drive improvements in urgent and emergency care, patient flow, and elective recovery
- Champion quality, safety, and high‑quality patient outcomes
- Ensure financial discipline, productivity, and operational efficiency
- Foster a culture of inclusion, compassion, and high performance
- Act as an ambassador for the Trust with system partners and stakeholders
Requirements:
You are an experienced NHS leader with a proven track record of delivering operational improvement in complex health systems.
- Strong credibility at executive level, with the ability to influence and challenge constructively
- Deep understanding of Planned and unplanned care pressures in acute settings
- A collaborative, system‑minded approach, able to build effective partnerships across providers, local authorities, and ICS structures
- A clear commitment to compassionate, inclusive leadership
About Castlefield Recruitment and How to Apply
Castlefield Recruitment is a leading specialist in healthcare recruitment, connecting talented healthcare professionals with exceptional opportunities across the UK. We are committed to supporting your career journey and ensuring you find a role that aligns with your skills and aspirations To apply for this role, please submit your CV via the apply button. For more information or to speak our dedicated consultant Stephen Warne, contact Castlefield Recruitment (stephen.warne@ castlefieldrecruitment.com)
Pay: £135,000.00-£150,000.00 per year
Experience:
- Chief Operating Officer: 5 years (required)
Work Location: In person