Principal CQC Consultant - Key Responsibilities
CQC Registration & Application Support
* Review CQC provider and manager applications prior to submission, identifying risks, gaps and areas for improvement.
* Amend and refine application documents to ensure they are suitable for resubmission following returns or refusals.
* Support consistency, quality and compliance across all applications before they are sent to clients.
* Provide expert input on governance, policies, business plans and supporting documentation.
Client Support & Escalations
* Respond to client queries and escalations in a professional and supportive manner.
* Provide tailored interview preparation for CQC fit person and provider interviews.
* Act as a senior point of contact for complex or higher-risk cases.
Post-Registration & Added-Value Services
* Support clients post-registration, including mock inspections and readiness reviews (where required).
* Provide practical advice to help new providers embed compliance and prepare for inspection.
Internal Support & Business Development
* Support internal staff to ensure a smooth, consistent and high-quality application process.
* Contribute strategic ideas and improvements to templates, QA processes and service delivery.
* Provide informed input into the development of new services and business growth initiatives.
Essential Experience
* At least 1 year’s direct exposure to the CQC registration or inspection process
* A minimum of 2 years’ experience in:
* Health and/or Social Care or
* A health and social care regulatory or compliance environment.
* Strong working knowledge of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014.
* Experience working with clients or stakeholders to achieve shared outcomes.
Desirable Experience
* Previous experience working directly for the Care Quality Commission, particularly as a Registration Inspector.
* Hands-on experience auditing, inspecting or assessing health and social care services.
* Established professional connections or insight into CQC processes and expectations.
* Experience supporting services through inspection preparation or regulatory challenges.
What We Offer
* Completely flexible working, with remote working as standard.
* A relaxed but high-performing working environment focused on outcomes, not micromanagement.
* The opportunity to play a meaningful role in a growing specialist consultancy.
* Genuine scope to influence how services are delivered and developed.
* Full time role available.
* Generous salary.
* Pension.
Who This Role Is Suited To
This role is ideal for someone who:
* Enjoys applying regulatory knowledge in a practical, client-focused way.
* Values quality, judgement and professional integrity.
* Wants flexibility and autonomy while still working as part of a collaborative team.
* Is motivated by helping providers get things right from the outset.