Job overview
An exciting opportunity has arisen within the Medicine Directorate for a registered nurse to join Birdham Ward as a Deputy Manager within the Diabetes and Endocrine team. The post holder will work alongside fellow Band 6 nurses, supporting the Ward Manager as part of a well‑established nursing team. Birdham Ward is a 26‑bedded area providing care for patients within acute medicine. The ward specialises in diabetes and endocrine conditions, with additional management of vascular presentations. This role is eligible for visa sponsorship under the UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) Skilled Worker route however sponsorship can only be provided where applicants meet the specific requirements set by UKVI, including the relevant skill and salary thresholds (£25000), and any role-specific criteria. We welcome applications from those who currently hold a UK NMC registration. If you currently hold an overseas nursing qualification and require sponsorship we are not currently direct hiring Internationally Qualified Nurses.
Main duties of the job
This role would suit a dynamic individual with strong leadership skills who is able to coordinate the ward’s daily nursing activities. Relevant knowledge and clinical experience in delivering high‑quality, patient‑focused, evidence‑based care is essential.
The post would be well suited to an effective mentor with excellent communication skills and substantial experience at Band 5 level, preferably within an acute medical setting.
Applicants must be able to demonstrate recent professional development, including completion of a leadership course. Completion of a diabetes module would be advantageous. The post holder will be supported in their role by the Ward Manager, Practice Educator, and Clinical Matron.
Working for our organisation
At UHSussex, diversity is our strength, and we want you to feel included to help us always deliver Excellent Care Everywhere, as shown in our Outstanding for Caring CQC rating. Your uniqueness and experiences will be part of our creative and innovative community where everyone is encouraged to succeed. We have a range of staff networks to help break down barriers, and can offer a buddy to help new members settle in. We’re proud to be a Disability Confident Employer (Level 3) and a Veteran Aware Trust.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
To have continuing 24 hour responsibility supporting the Ward Manager for the effective management of the ward and deputising in their absence. In addition the post holder will provide nursing leadership within this area, ensuring an effective quality nursing service, with responsibility for standards of nursing care and patient safety.
The Deputy Sister / Charge Nurse will be responsible for supporting the Ward Manager with maintaining high clinical standards, budget management, staff performance, appraisals and education. To manage an appropriate patient workload across the service, providing expert support and advice. Developing the teams and ensuring a seamless service for patients working closely with the Ward Manager.
Person specification
Experience / Qualifications
Essential criteria
1. Registered General Nurse (level 1) Degree level, with significant post-registration experience (specialist or general, depending on requirements of the position)
2. Experience of supervising junior staff and students, and possess or be working towards being a Practice Supervisor or Assessor Supervisor.
3. Proven ability to build and maintain professional relationships with the multi-disciplinary team members. Demonstrate advanced communication skills to support patients and their carers and convey sensitive information, overcoming barriers to communication.
4. Excellent time management and organisational skills. Manage the conflicting demands of team leader and clinical responsibilities.
5. Substantial experience in an acute medical environment.
6. Involvement in carrying out clinical audit including co-ordination, evaluation and service development.
7. Evidence of continuing professional development
8. Able to plan and prioritise a complex and unpredictable caseload efficiently.
9. Proven understanding of clinical governance with risk management, its importance and its application.
Desirable criteria
10. Evidence of post-graduate experience and attendance at specialist courses
11. Qualification in Diabetes
12. Leadership qualification
13. Experience of change management and introducing service improvements.
14. Qualification in teaching and assessing- Mentorship module or similar.
15. Module in Diabetes or Care of the Acutely Ill Adult.
16. Experience gained in more than one specialist medical care area
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Essential criteria
17. Evidence of having championed diversity in previous roles (as appropriate to role).
18. Evidence of having undertaken own development to improve understanding of equalities issues
Important information for applicants:
A Note on AI Use in Applications
We value the individuality and authenticity that each candidate brings to the application process. While AI tools are increasingly accessible, we strongly discourage their use in completing your application. Your responses should reflect your own voice, experiences, and motivations—elements that are essential to a fair and accurate evaluation.
Applications that rely heavily on AI-generated content may misrepresent your abilities and could result in your application being rejected. We encourage you to take the time to present your genuine self, as this helps us better understand your potential and ensures a transparent selection process.
Closing Adverts Early: In the event of exceptional interest, we may close adverts earlier than specified.
Some of our adverts are capped for a limited number of applications; therefore, the advert will close once the cap has been reached. We therefore encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible if you are interested in the position to prevent you from missing out on applying for the opportunity.
Flexible Working: If you would like to explore potential options regarding flexible working please speak with the appropriate recruiting/line manager.
DBS Checks: As part of our commitment to a safe working environment, we undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service check on all new employees where the role is eligible for a criminal record check. We make offers in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1975.
Skilled Worker Visa: Applications for Skilled Worker sponsorship are welcome for the roles that meet the Visa and Immigrations eligibility criteria. For further information please visit the gov.uk website searching for Skilled Worker. It is your responsibility as the applicant to ensure that you meet this criteria.
UHSussex reserves the right to close the role early if we receive a high volume of applications