Overview
Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust is seeking a accomplished and forward-thinking Chief Operating Officer to lead our broad portfolio of mental health and learning disability services, as well as our provider collaboratives. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced leader who thrives in the mental health sector and is ready to help us realise our full potential.
We are rated 'Good' by the Care Quality Commission, and we remain ambitious in the face of rising demand. Our deep-rooted partnership with the University of Oxford drives innovation and research for the benefit of our patients. We are committed to values of kindness, respect, innovation and diversity, and we are looking for a transformational leader with the energy, vision and drive to make a lasting difference to the communities we serve.
Key responsibilities
Our Board is composed of executive and non-executive directors, led by an experienced Chair. The Chief Operating Officer will motivate and support our clinical workforce, streamline internal processes, and build strong relationships with local government, voluntary organisations, primary care and other NHS partners. The role also involves representing Oxford Health in regional and national conversations, ensuring our voice is heard and our contributions recognised. The COO will be instrumental in provider collaboratives and active engagement in two integrated care systems.
Our services span a wide geographical area and include a diverse range of care settings, such as forensic mental health wards and prison healthcare. We are committed to staff development and learning, and we recognise work needed to meet ambitions around equality, diversity and inclusion.
About us
We provide physical, mental health and social care for people of all ages across Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Swindon, Wiltshire, Bath and North East Somerset. Services are delivered at community bases, hospitals, clinics and people’s homes, delivering care as close to home as possible. Our vision is that no matter who you are or where you are, you will tell us that you receive: "Outstanding care delivered by an outstanding team".
Our values are: "Caring, safe and excellent".
Benefits
At Oxford Health we offer a wide range of benefits designed to support your career and wellbeing. These include:
* Excellent opportunities for career progression
* Individual and Trust wide learning and development
* 27 days annual leave, plus bank holidays, rising to 33 days with continuous service
* NHS Discount
* Pension scheme
* Lease car scheme
* Employee Assistance Programme
* Mental Health First Aiders
* Staff accommodation (waiting lists may apply)
* Staff networking and support groups
Details
Date posted: 26 August 2025
Pay scheme: Very senior manager (VSM)
Salary: Depending on experience
Contract: Permanent
Working pattern: Full-time
Reference number: 267-CS7440670
Job locations: Oxford, OX4 4XN
Job description and candidate information
Please see attached candidate brief which includes detailed instructions for submitting your CV and expression of interest.
Key dates
Closing date: Midnight, Sunday 14th September
Focus Group Assessment: Wednesday 8th October, in person at Unipart House, Oxford
Panel Interview: Thursday 9th October, in person at Unipart House, Oxford
Person Specification
Knowledge and experience (Essential)
* Significant relevant experience at a senior level
* Evidence of continued professional development
* Extensive knowledge and expertise relevant to transforming mental health within complex Health and Social care systems
* Experience of delivering complex change in a politically sensitive and complex environment
* Significant provider related expertise and knowledge across all elements of health and social care system
Communication (Essential)
* Ability to build trusted stakeholder relationships and wide support networks across health, social care & the Third Sector
* Clear and adaptable communication; ability to convey key messages concisely
* Strong external communications skills in a politically sensitive environment with experience handling media
* Experience delivering concise communications for senior stakeholders
* Experience presenting to large groups of stakeholders
Skills (Essential)
* Strong analytical ability to tackle complex issues and drive improvements
* Ability to act on incomplete information and make informed decisions
* Advanced numerical and written data analysis skills
* Experience creating, developing and motivating teams
* Ability to delegate effectively
* Ability to manage multiple activities under pressure and balance strategic and operational work
Disclosures
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and requires a Disclosure to the DBS to check for any prior criminal convictions.
Certificate of Sponsorship: Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled Worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website.
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