The closing date is 04 July 2026
Applications are invited for a Consultant General Surgeon with a specialist interest in Colorectal Surgery to join one of the UK's leading high-volume robotic colorectal centre at West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.
The successful candidate will join an ambitious and forward-thinking team delivering a fully integrated, robotic-first colorectal service, with approximately 97% of elective colorectal cancer resections performed robotically. The department has access to multiple advanced robotic platforms, including the latest generation systems and a dedicated emergency robotic programme.
We are seeking an outstanding candidate with advanced expertise in minimally invasive and robotic colorectal surgery, a strong commitment to training, and a track record in research and innovation.
Core hours are Monday to Friday with participation in a 1:12 emergency on‑call rota and a 1:6 colorectal surgeon of the week rota.
Main duties of the job
The appointee will deliver high‑quality elective and emergency colorectal and general surgery within a nationally recognised, robotic‑led programme. Candidates must demonstrate advanced capability in robotic colorectal surgery, including independent performance of robotic colorectal cancer resections. A subspecialty interest in complex inflammatory bowel disease surgery is highly desirable.
The role includes participation in lower GI endoscopy (JAG accreditation desirable) and close collaboration with gastroenterology within a high‑functioning MDT structure. The department has a strong culture of dual‑console training, mentorship, and collaborative operating. The appointee will play a key role in training resident doctors and fellows, contributing to a flagship training environment.
There are significant opportunities to contribute to research, including robotic surgery, emergency robotics, and digitally enabled care pathways such as virtual hospital models.
About us
With a new hospital planned for Watford and work underway to update theatres at St Albans City Hospital, this is an exciting time to join us. We are building on the success of our award‑winning virtual hospital and re‑imagining models of care, working ever more closely with partners and making the most of advances in digital healthcare.
Staff wellbeing and development are a priority at West Herts Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, as is the role of innovation in improving clinical care, outcomes and patient experience.
We are a flexible working employer. At West Herts we recognise the importance of a good work life balance and the ability to work flexibly. We are delighted to offer a variety of flexible working options for all staff. Please check out our web page for more information. https://www.westhertshospitals.nhs.uk/flexibleworking/
We encourage and welcome people with disabilities.
Job responsibilities
The post holder will contribute to the delivery of a high‑performance elective and emergency surgical service across multiple sites, aligned with national priorities including elective recovery and cancer pathway delivery. The post comprises 10 Programmed Activities, including up to 1.5 SPAs to support appraisal, revalidation, education, research, and service innovation. Clinical duties include outpatient clinics, endoscopy, theatre lists, and MDT participation, with job planning designed to support efficient cross‑site working.
The role includes participation in a 1:12 emergency general surgery on‑call rota with prospective cover, and a 1:6 colorectal surgeon of the week rota. During these periods, elective activity is suspended to prioritise acute care.
The appointee will play a central role in training and supervision within a large, highly engaged resident workforce, supporting one of the UK’s leading robotic training programmes.
Person Specification
* Eligible for full GMC registration on GMC Specialist Register or within 6 months of CCT
* MD or above (completed or in progress)
* Comprehensive knowledge in the management of colorectal and general surgical disorders
* Worked at least five years at specialist trainee level or equivalent
* Experience managing emergency paediatric surgical conditions
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
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