Job Description
Interim Chief People Officer
Location: Outside London
Duration: 6 Months
Rate: VSM
Sector: NHS / Acute Trust
About the Role
We are supporting a NHS organisation in the appointment of an Interim Chief People Officer for an initial 6-month period. This is a key leadership role within the organisation, providing strategic direction across all areas of workforce, OD, and HR, while ensuring alignment with the Trust’s clinical and operational priorities.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the People and OD Directorate, driving the delivery of a compassionate, high-performing workforce culture.
* Provide strategic leadership on medical workforce planning, job planning, and workforce governance.
* Advise the Board on all workforce and organisational development matters, ensuring robust compliance with NHS standards and frameworks.
* Work closely with clinical and operational leaders to enhance engagement, retention, and staff wellbeing.
Candidate Profile
* Previous experience as a Chief People Officer (or equivalent Board-level HR leader) within the NHS — ideally in a large acute setting.
* Deep understanding of medical job planning and workforce transformation within complex clinical environments.
* Strong stakeholder management and communication skills, able to operate confidently at Board and system level.
* A collaborative, visible leader with the ability to deliver through influence and build trust across all staff groups.
How to Apply
If you are an experienced NHS People leader and immediately available for your next interim assignment, please contact daniel@mlcpartners.co.uk to discuss this opportunity in more detail. This role requires 4 days on site.