Role Summary
This is an exciting opportunity to join pathology services as a Band 7 Operational Manager at a time of significant change. The post holder will play a key role in delivering redesign, and the transition to centralised, integrated pathology services at Gadeon House, a new purpose‑built pathology facility. This role combines hands‑on operational management with involvement in service improvement and change, helping to shape modern, sustainable pathology services while ensuring safe and effective day‑to‑day delivery.
About the Role
For more information on the Job Description and Responsibilities, please click the link below.
More details about the role
We are looking for someone who thrives in a dynamic environment, enjoys working across organisational boundaries and is enthusiastic about delivering change. You will bring strong operational leadership skills, experience in managing complex services, and the ability to engage with a wide range of stakeholders during periods of transformation.
Given the connection between Pathology and multiple pathways across the organisation, the ideal candidate will have knowledge of diagnostic performance, with a diverse skillset which can be applied across a breadth of operational challenges. Problem-solving around medical and other clinical staffing, influencing performance outcomes, commercial development, and benefits realisation all feature heavily in this role. Knowledge of pathology services is an advantage, but not a prerequisite.
The base location for this role is flexible, with the option to be based initially in Barnstaple or Exeter, and later in Gadeon House in early 2027. On-site working will be required at least four days per week.
We have many members of the team who enjoy flexible working benefits, and we’d be happy to discuss requests on an individual basis.
Working Pattern: Monday- Friday (9 am-5 pm)
Interview Date: To Be Confirmed
For further information, please contact: Gosia Poznalska, Senior Operations Manager via Teams or email: malgorzata.poznalska@nhs.net
This is a fixed term contract until 31/05/2028. For current NHS employees this post could be a secondment opportunity.
This is an internal vacancy for Royal Devon employees, therefore Bank workers are currently not eligible to apply for this vacancy.
As an inclusive employer, the Royal Devon values diversity and is committed to creating a culture of inclusivity where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. We believe in fostering a sense of belonging and actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities. We recognise the advantages of having a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.
Preference will be given to staff with ‘Priority’ and 'At Risk' status including NHS At Risk staff throughout Devon.
The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust reserves the right to close vacancy when sufficient applications have been received.
The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust was established in April 2022, bringing together the expertise of both the Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust and Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust.
About Us
Stretching across Northern, Eastern and Mid Devon, we have a workforce of over 15,000 staff, making us the largest employer in Devon. Our core services, which we provide to more than 615,000 people, cover more than 2,000 square miles across Devon, while some of our specialist services cover the whole of the peninsula, extending our reach as far as Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
We deliver a wide range of emergency, specialist and general medical services through North Devon District Hospital and the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (Wonford). Alongside our two acute hospitals, we provide integrated health and social care services across a variety of settings, including community inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics, and within people’s own homes. We also offer primary care services, a range of specialist community services, and Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC).
Our state-of-the-art equipment, leading technologies and strong links to local universities put us at the forefront of research and innovations, enabling us to provide world-class care to our local communities.
Our values are at the heart of everything we do, click here to find out more
It has never been a more exciting time to join the Royal Devon, as you will help to shape our services as we continue along our integration journey.
Benefits
Looking after you is important to us.
We strive to help our staff create a healthy work-life balance through flexible working schemes and our family friendly policies.
If you are starting out in the NHS, you’ll start with 27 days paid annual leave (plus bank holidays), rising to 33 days plus bank holidays.
You will benefit from access to our own comprehensive occupational health services, including counselling, onsite wellbeing activities and groups.
We will work together to maintain a culture that develops and supports you and your team.
This might include funding for a care certificate, a degree or leadership qualifications. Or it might include days off to study, engage in CPD or rotational placements to help you hone your skills. Wherever you are heading in the NHS, we will help you get there.
Salary is not the only financial benefit
You will have access to an extensive range of staff discounts on shopping, fitness and leisure options and you can spread the cost of technology and home appliance purchases from major retailers. You will also have access to other benefits including:
- National discount services such as the Blue Light Card and Health Service Discounts.
- Salary sacrifice options including our OFSTED rated outstanding nursery onsite at Exeter
- Car lease schemes.
- The NHS Pension scheme (one of the most generous and comprehensive in the UK).
- Cycle to work scheme
These are just a few of the benefits available – if the role is something you are interested in, we would love to hear from you.
