Development and Operational Support Lead Platelets
6 months Fixed Term
Job Summary
You will be joining a dynamic team who are part of something special.
You will be responsible for engaging and building relationships with a wide range of stakeholders ranging across the supply chain and you inspire a working culture of continuous improvement.
You will be part of a supportive team and will be actively encouraged to share your ideas and thoughts on how we successfully embed processes and ways of working, to ensure that we are able to deliver and improve upon the service we provide donors and patients
You will require significant autonomy and initiative as well the ability to inspire a team. The post suits an individual who is confident in their ability to deliver, productive under pressure, takes ownership of deliverables and is capable of making informed decisions.
Main duties of the job
The primary role is to be the Operational lead for major projects, managing a number of specialist departments and to provide expert, proactive and professional leadership on service and product implementation within the Blood Supply chain. In this role your responsibilities will include:
* Lead major operational projects within Blood Supply with support from the relevant Assistant Director / Accountable Executive. Provide leadership, vision and direction to develop the Operational strategy across Blood Supply.
* With support from the Assistant Director / Accountable Executive lead on the implementation of a range of programmes/changes, standardisation initiatives, new ways of working, introduction of new technology, service and product development and improved performance across Blood Supply.
* Collaborate with senior management teams to identify operational improvements for the complete Blood supply chain.
* Lead key operational project teams in the implementation of new initiatives across Blood Supply. Providing advice on standards and specifications for systems, processes, consumables and equipment and providing operational expertise for evaluation, procurement processes and projects.
* Maintaining a thorough working knowledge of practices, procurement, licensing and regulatory requirements in all areas associated with Blood Supply
You will be required to travel and spend time away from base, which will involve working irregular hours and overnight stays when required, with prior notice
About You
Experience and Knowledge
* Knowledge of Blood Supply Operational functions which may include Transfusion Science. Component Development / Donation Services/Manufacturing Operations.
* Knowledge of supply chains
* Knowledge of donation team processes
* Experience as a senior Manager within NHSBT, similar environment
* Thorough understanding of Regulatory requirements e.g. CQC/GMP/CPA requirements.
* Experience of target setting, staff motivation and change management.
Qualifications and Training
* Master’s level qualification or equivalent knowledge gained by examination of a professional body or equivalent experience
* Demonstrates commitment to own continued professional development (CPD)
* Please view the attached recruitment profile which is a summary of the detailed Job Description and Person Specification for the full personal attributes we require for the role. You will need to demonstrate these throughout the recruitment process.
About Us
It takes all types of people to deliver the kind of service that saves and improves lives. At NHS Blood and Transplant, you’ll join a team of more than 6,000 people who are making a genuine difference to communities, families, friends, relatives and more across the UK. We play a unique and special role in the NHS by helping people do something extraordinary- donate blood, blood products, organs, tissues, or stem cells to save someone in need.
Our three core values are what set us apart. They guide and inspire everything we do.
By being caring, expertly meeting the needs of our patients and our people, and accepting nothing less than the best quality, we can do extraordinary work and help our people to do something extraordinary in their career, too. Three small words, one big difference - Caring, Expert and Quality. Together we'll save and improve more lives than ever.
You will join us on our journey to create an inclusive workplace and aim to reflect the diverse communities we work with, and we positively encourage applications from all sectors of the community.
What we offer:
* NHSBT promotes flexible working opportunities where the role will allow.
* 27 days annual leave (pro rata for part-time) plus Bank Holidays, increasing to 29 days after 5 years’ service and to 33 days after 10 years.
* NHS pension scheme. The NHS Pension Scheme is a defined benefit scheme (not dependent on investment returns) Further details and outline of benefits can be found at: www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/pensions
* We’ve fostered a culture of continuous learning where colleagues are well-led, engaged, and encouraged to grow. We support you in reaching your full potential, both in your current role and future career. Our Thrive program embodies our commitment to learning and development, offering a wide range of activities to support your personal and professional growth. It’s open to everyone at NHSBT, ensuring you have the resources to succeed and shine in your role.
This vacancy will close at 23:59 on 26th November 2025
Interviews are anticipated to be held on 4th December 2025 subject to confirmation
For informal enquiries please contact Amanda Burchette People and Culture Partner on amanda.burchette@nhsbt.nhs.uk
Please view the attached recruitment profile which is a summary of the detailed Job Description and Person Specification.