The United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is a system leader for health security; taking action internationally to strengthen global health security, providing trusted advice to government and the public and reducing inequalities in the way different communities experience and are impacted by infectious disease, environmental hazards, and other threats to health. UKHSA’s remit, as an agency with a global-to-local reach, is to protect the health of the nation from infectious diseases and other external threats to health. As the nation’s expert national health security agency UKHSA will: Prevent: anticipate threats to health and help build the nation’s readiness, defences and health security Detect: use cutting edge environmental and biological surveillance to proactively detect and monitor infectious diseases and threats to health Analyse: use world-class science and data analytics to assess and continually monitor threats to health, identifying how best to control and mitigate the risks Respond: take rapid, collaborative and effective actions nationally and locally to mitigate threats to health when they materialise Lead: lead strong and sustainable global, national, regional and local partnerships designed to save lives, protect the nation from public health threats and reduce inequalities. Job overview We are seeking an Infection Sciences Service Manager Upper Grade 7 or AfC Band 8b who is HCPC registered. The laboratory in Bristol is located within the Severn Pathology suite of laboratories at North Bristol Trust Southmead site. The laboratory receives in excess of 1 million specimens a year from a large number of clinical specialties across Bristol and Bath Hospital trusts which contribute to an interesting and varied workload. We are currently recruiting for an Infection Sciences Service Manager who will contribute to planning, leading, organising and controlling the operation of the laboratory service in line with the clinical direction of the jointly appointed Clinical Lead for infection Sciences. The Infection Sciences Service Manager will be responsible for ensuring and improving the performance, quality, efficiency and safety of laboratory operations through the implementation of effective methods and strategies. They will be expected to act independently and will be accountable for his/her own actions and those of others, working in a matrix management structure, line managed by the UKHSA Regional Head of Operations and NBT Pathology Director and clinically accountable to the relevant Lead Consultants, through the Clinical Lead for Infection Sciences. Advert lead, coordinate & monitor work of various sections involved in the provision of Infection Sciences laboratory services, manage workflows & staffing levels & coordinate with other teams/services to ensure maximising quality & timeliness of services manage & oversee administration & Infection science reception staff provide management, organisation & operational problem solving for the laboratory service & its day-to-day operation across relevant sites contribute to the development & management of effective business continuity & resilience arrangements manage & lead the development of services and oversee the introduction of new ways of operating work collaboratively with NBT Pathology lead roles, with accountability for quality of lab services, including ensuring accreditation/quality control/assurance standards are met in line with corporate direction from the NBT Pathology & UKHSA Quality Assurance Leads & committees monitor & report on service & financial performance, driving improvements to ensure agreed targets are met & customer service is maintained & enhanced oversee lab equipment management, including management of consumables & liaise with equipment suppliers over equipment maintenance, performance & fault resolution support the relevant Lead Consultants to develop & integrate diagnostic & analytical techniques into appropriate patient pathways to improve patient outcomes Working for our organisation We pride ourselves as being an employer of choice, where Everyone Matters promoting equality of opportunity to actively encourage applications from everyone, including groups currently underrepresented in our workforce. UKHSA ethos is to be an inclusive organisation for all our staff and stakeholders. To create, nurture and sustain an inclusive culture, where differences drive innovative solutions to meet the needs of our workforce and wider communities. We do this through celebrating and protecting differences by removing barriers and promoting equity and equality of opportunity for all. Please visit our careers site for more information https://gov.uk/ukhsa/careers Detailed job description and main responsibilities Management & Organisation Within the framework laid down by the UKHSA Regional Head of Operations & NBT Pathology Service Manager & under the clinical leadership of the jointly appointed clinical lead for Infection Sciences undertake the management & organisation of the lab service. This must ensure the provision of a timely, accurate & comprehensive lab service meeting requirements & expectations of its users & for the benefit of patients & the public health but within a defined financial framework Provide professional leadership, motivation, support & encouragement for staff Ensure development & maintenance of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), policies & working practices in accordance with a programme agreed by the UKHSA Regional Head of Operations, NBT Pathology Manager, Clinical Lead for Infection Sciences & other members of the Management Team Management of safe working practices within lab environment requiring appropriate facilities management within context of wider facilities structures Finance & Resources Review consumables/non-capital equipment used by the lab & identify opportunities for development & improvement in quality & cost effectiveness Negotiate efficient use of resources with appropriate staff/ bodies Contribute to the management of the departmental budgets, including agreement of budget composition & delegated budgets Analyse & monitor financial performance across pay, non-pay, income & efficiencies Raise budgetary queries with the UKHSA Head of Operations, NBT Pathology Manager & finance teams Identify opportunities & implement plans for efficiency savings & income generation Asset & Buildings Management Work collaboratively with UKHSA & NBT corporate leads to manage procurement process of UKHSA & NBT capital equipment programmes & asset management for the service Ensure maintenance/service contracts are in place to ensure safe & effective equipment operation Liaise with Estates Departments regarding all aspects of the service’s needs for maintenance of building & services Service Development In conjunction with UKHSA Regional Head of Operations, Consultant in Public Health Infections & members of NBT Pathology management team, take a lead role in the review, development & implementation of business & strategic plans Scan for new business opportunities, scoping & analysing possibilities & supporting bids for new services Ensure the lab service remains current & up to date with scientific & organisational medical developments Develop & review practices through developing service policies, commissioning audits & benchmarking activities, implementing LEAN working & setting continuous improvement methodologies across NBT Pathology, UKHSA & wider healthcare community Scientific & Clinical Be actively involved in scientific & technical duties within the department which may include delivering specialist technical advice to service users Analyse, interpret, technically validate & report on routine complex & specialist tests Liaise with IT leads to ensure that the lab service optimises the use of new technologies Health & Safety Be responsible for ensuring the notification of all dangerous occurrences within the department/site to appropriate bodies Ensure all departmental staff are aware of/receive training in good Health & Safety practices in line with UKHSA & NBT policy In conjunction with the Trust Security Officer & UKHSA facilities be responsible for the security of staff/equipment/premises Quality Assurance In collaboration with the NBT Pathology Quality Assurance Lead, develop a clear accountability framework for the Infection Sciences service in respect of quality assurance Ensure compliance with UKHSA & Trust Risk Management policies Ensure participation in appropriate External Quality Assurance schemes, monitor departmental performance in such schemes & implement corrective actions Participate in NBT Pathology, Trust & UKHSA clinical governance & audit activities Ensure that systems of Internal Quality assurance & control are developed, implemented, monitored & reviewed The above is only an outline of the tasks, responsibilities & outcomes required of these roles. You will carry out any other duties as may reasonably be required. The job description & person specifications may be reviewed on an ongoing basis in accordance with the changing needs of the organisation. Essential Criteria Registration with Health Professions Council (Biomedical Scientist) BSc Honours Degree in Biomedical Science or equivalent Postgraduate level qualification in Infection Sciences subjects equivalent to Fellowship of the Institute of Biomedical Sciences or MSc Expert knowledge & understanding of the key techniques currently in use in the department including the ability to use departmental lab equipment Recent experience in an Infection Sciences diagnostic lab with at least 6 years post graduate experience & 2 years management experience Recognised management qualification or attendance at all relevant short courses on relevant management issues i.e. interviewing, managing people, managing sickness, etc Appropriate & up to date participation in CPD & appraisal High level knowledge of lab policies, SOPs, codes of practice, legislation & professional guidelines including those relating to Health & Safety Working knowledge of common IT programs (e.g. Microsoft) & lab IT programs (e.g. ICE, Ultra) - be able to organise & develop systems within these programs Knowledge of finance systems & experience in managing budgets Knowledge & experience of staff management techniques (e.g. recruitment, training, supervision, organisational, appraisal, grievance & disciplinary) Knowledge & ability to interpret National & Local Strategy & policy drivers relevant to span of management High level of theoretical & practical knowledge of Infection Sciences techniques & procedures & their clinical applications, be technically competent at specimen processing & interpretation Understanding of the Public Health requirements of an Infection Sciences lab Understanding of the requirements to ensure compliance with appropriate legislative frameworks & protocols Application & Sift This vacancy is using Competency. At sift stage you will be assessed against the essential criteria listed in the job advert. You will be required to complete an: Application form (‘Employer/ Activity history’ section on the application) 1000 word supporting statement Healthjobs UK has a word limit of 1500, but your supporting statement must be no more than 1000 word count. This should outline how your skills, experience, and knowledge provide evidence of your suitability for the role. You will receive a joint score for your application form and statement. (The application form is the kind of information you would put into your CV – please be advised you will not be able to upload your CV. Please complete the application form in as much detail as possible). If we receive a large number of applications an initial sift against the lead essential criteria will be conducted: Registration with Health Professions Council (Biomedical Scientist) Longlisting: In the event of a large number of applications we may longlist into 3 piles of: Meets all essential criteria Meets some essential criteria Meets no essential criteria Only those meeting all essential criteria will be taken through. Please note feedback will not be provided at this stage. Interview Stage (Competency based) You will be invited to a face-to-face interview. In exceptional circumstances, we may be able to offer a remote interview. This vacancy is being assessed using Competency. During the interview we will assess against the below based on the essential criteria: Knowledge Experience Skills and Abilities Once this job has closed, the job advert will no longer be available. You may want to save a copy for your records. External Open to all external applicants (anyone) from outside the Civil Service (including by definition internal applicants). Additional Information Salary Breakdown: Upper Grade 7: £64,317 - £66,581 (Minimum - Maximum) AfC Band 8b: £64,455 - £74,896 (Minimum - Maximum) Pro rata per annum Security Clearance Level Requirement All successful candidates must meet the basic security requirements before they can be appointed. The level of security needed is: Basic Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) For this role you will also need to meet: Counter Terrorism Check (CTC) DBS Requirement: Basic DBS This role is being offered based at our site: Southmead Hospital, Southmead Road, Westbury-On-Trym, Bristol BS10 5NB Please note hybrid working is not available for this role. For meaningful National Security Vetting checks to be carried out individuals need to have lived in the UK for a sufficient period of time. You should normally have been resident in the United Kingdom for the last 3 years as the role requires Counter Terrorism Check (CTC) UK residency less than the outlined periods may not necessarily bar you from gaining national security vetting and applicants should contact the Vacancy Holder / Recruiting Manager listed in the advert for further advice. Please note: If you are successful at interview, and are moving from another government department, NHS, or Local Authority, the relevant starting salary principles for level transfers or promotions will apply. Otherwise, roles are offered at the pay scale minimum for the grade, but in exceptional circumstances there may be flexibility if you are able to demonstrate you are already in receipt of an existing, higher salary. Pay increases are through the relevant annual pay award for the role and terms. IMPORTANT - PLEASE READ Artificial Intelligence (AI) Artificial Intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own) applications may be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action. Please see our candidate guidance for more information on appropriate and inappropriate use. Link below: Artificial intelligence and recruitment | Civil Service Careers This is a Non-Reserved post under the Civil Service Nationality Rules. To be eligible for employment in the UK Civil Service applicants must meet the Civil Service Nationality Rules (CSNRs) which operate independently of and additionally to the Immigration Rules. Applicants must also meet necessary security and vetting requirements, along with any other relevant pre-employment checks. This job is broadly open to the following groups: UK nationals nationals of the Republic of Ireland nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) (opens in a new window) nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities who have made a valid application for settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS) individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020 Turkish nationals, and certain family members of Turkish nationals, who have accrued the right to work in the Civil Service For more information on job nationality requirements and the right to work in the UK, see the Civil Service Nationality rules (opens in a new window) and the UK Visas and Immigration rules (opens in a new window) For posts on UKHSA Civil Service terms and conditions, new entrants to the Civil Service are expected to start on the minimum of the pay band. For existing Civil Servants and roles advertised across government, the rules of transfer apply, i.e., level transfers move on current salary or the pay range minimum, transfers on promotion move to new pay range minimum or receive a 10% increase. Either case is determined by whichever is the highest. The Civil Service pay structure and progression is different from NHS Agenda for Change (AfC), most local authority pay grades and other systems that have annual pay increments. For further details, please refer to the Information Sheet- Starting Salaries & Benefits attachment. For AfC or Medical/Dental posts, you must have the correct professional registration to be appointed. The pay will follow the AfC or Medical & Dental terms & conditions. You may be asked to provide evidence of previous service whilst we are conducting pre-employment checks to determine your starting salary. For Temporary Appointments, if you are not currently a civil servant, you will take up the post on a Fixed Term appointment. You may be able to take this role up as a Secondment. If you are an existing Civil Servant, based outside of the UKHSA, you will take up the post as a loan which you will need your department to agree. You cannot take the post up as a fixed term. If you are an existing UKHSA member of staff, you will take up the post as either a level transfer or a temporary promotion as per the UKHSA’s Pay policy. Given the nature of the work of the UKHSA, as a Category 1 responder under the Civil Contingencies Act, you may be required in an emergency, if deemed a necessity, to redeploy to another role at short notice. You may also be required to work at any other location, within reasonable travelling distance of your permanent home address, in line with the provisions set out in your contract of employment. Late Applications will unfortunately not be considered. Working for the Civil Service The Civil Service Code (opens in a new window) sets out the standards of behaviour expected of civil servants. We recruit by merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's recruitment principles (opens in a new window). The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity. The law requires that selection for appointment to the Civil Service is on merit on the basis of fair and open competition, as outlined in the Civil Service Commission's Recruitment Principles. If you feel your application has not been treated in accordance with the Recruitment Principles, and you wish to make a complaint, in the first instance, you should contact UKHSA Public Accountability Unit via email: [email protected] If you are not satisfied with the response you receive from the Department, you can contact the Civil Service Commission: Visit the Civil Service Commission website here. Reserve List - If more than the required number of suitable candidates pass the interview criteria, you may be kept on a reserve list for 12 months subject to your agreement. You may be contacted, in merit-order, if similar roles with closely matching essential criteria become available and the department choose to appoint from a reserve list. The panel will assess if candidates meet the requirement of the role first, using a specific benchmark system. If you are interviewed for the post and do not meet the required threshold for the specified grade, your application may be assessed against a similar, lower grade role and you may be offered the post should one be available. Interview expenses will not be reimbursed. UKHSA is required to check employment and/or education history covering three consecutive years. Please ensure you give details of at least two different referees, even if you were employed in one company for three years or more. If you are offered a job, information will also be transferred into the national NHS Electronic Staff Records system. Please note, all communication regarding your application will be made via email, please ensure you check your junk/spam folders as emails are sometimes filtered there. Any move to UKHSA from another employer will mean you can no longer access childcare vouchers. This includes moves between government departments. You may however be eligible for other government schemes, including Tax-Free Childcare. Determine your eligibility at https://www.childcarechoices.gov.uk/. Benefits of working at UKHSA include: Generous annual leave: -26 days for the first 5 years of continuous service -28 days after 5 years of continuous service -32 days after 10 years of continuous service -Plus public holidays and one privilege day for the King’s birthday Access to a generous Defined Benefit pension scheme with employer contributions. Access to a cycle-to-work salary sacrifice scheme, season ticket advances and payroll giving. Access to a retail discounts and cashback site. We also promote flexible working patterns (part-time, job-share, condensed hours). UKHSA views flexible working as essential in enabling us to recruit and retain talented people, ensuring that they are able to enjoy a long-lasting career with us. All employees have the right to apply for flexible working and there are a range of options available including working from home, compressed hours and job sharing. We also offer a generous maternity/ paternity and adoption leave package. Hybrid Working UKHSA operates a hybrid working model where business needs allow. This provides us with greater flexibility about how and where we work, to get the best from our workforce. As a hybrid worker, you will usually spend a minimum of 60% of your contracted hours (averaged over a month) working at one of UKHSA's locations (approximately 3 days a week pro rata) and the rest of your time working from home. Disability Confident Scheme The Civil Service embraces diversity and promotes equal opportunities. As such, we run a Disability Confident Scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria at sift to ensure these candidates are invited to interview. If you wish to be included in this scheme please tick the box on your application form. Reasonable Adjustments The Civil Service is committed to making sure that our selection methods are fair to everyone. To help you during the recruitment process, we will take into account any reasonable adjustments that could help you. An adjustment is a change to the recruitment process or an adjustment at work. This is separate to the Disability Confident Scheme. If you need an adjustment to be made at any point during the recruitment process you should: Contact the recruitment team in confidence as soon as possible to discuss your needs. You can find out more information about reasonable adjustments across the Civil Service here: https://www.civil-service-careers.gov.uk/reasonable-adjustments/ International Police Check If you have spent more than 6 months abroad over the last 3 years you may need an International Police Check. This would not necessarily have to be in a single block, and could be time accrued over that period. Internal Fraud check If successful for this role as one aspect of pre-employment screening, applicant’s personal details – name, national insurance number and date of birth - will be checked against the Cabinet Office Internal Fraud Hub and anyone included on the database will be refused employment unless they can show exceptional circumstances. Currently this is only for External candidates to the Civil Service. Security Vetting Please check the Security Clearance needed for the role and follow the link for more information: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/united-kingdom-security-vetting-clearance-levels/national-security-vetting-clearance-levels Future location UKHSA is investing in a new state-of-the-art National Biosecurity Centre in Harlow, Essex, which will eventually bring together teams currently based at Canary Wharf, Colindale and Porton Down. For more details, please see: Huge biosecurity centre investment to boost pandemic protection - GOV.UK. The new facilities will start becoming operational in the mid-2030s, with full completion by 2038. Staff will move in phases as facilities become available. If you're appointed to a role currently based at Canary Wharf, Colindale or Porton Down, please note that we'll continue investing in these sites for the next decade. As we get closer to the transition, we'll provide full information about relocation support available to staff.