Divisional Director of Operations (DDO)

Stakeholder Event: 16th June 2026 / Panel Interview: 24th and 25th June 2026

Divisional Director of Operations

2 vacancies: Medicine Division and Surgery Division

Following the launch of our new target operating model and restructuring of our clinical divisions, we are seeking a Director of Operations (DDO) for our Medicine Division and our Surgery Division. The DDO is a key role within the organisation and is responsible for providing operational management and leadership of a complex division in one of England’s largest acute hospital Trusts. A visionary leader who demonstrates an inclusive and engaging leadership style, you will balance operational delivery with quality and financial performance. Reporting to the Divisional Managing Director, this is a fantastic opportunity for an established Operations Director or deputy looking for their next challenge. Working closely with the Divisional Medical Director and Divisional Director of Nursing, you will be part of a strong team focused on providing high standards of patient experience and delivering our strategy ‘excellent care everywhere’.

To succeed in this role, you will be able to demonstrate a strong understanding of operational management in an acute NHS hospital setting and a proven track record of improving and maintaining operational performance standards.

The Divisional Director of Operations (DDO) is responsible for the day\-to\-day operational management of the Division, ensuring safe, effective, and efficient delivery of services.

The DDO works closely with the Managing Director, Divisional Medical Director, and Divisional Director of Nursing to achieve divisional and Trust objectives.

The DDO leads on performance management, service delivery, and operational improvement, supporting the development and implementation of operational strategic plans. This role requires highly complex communication, expert\-level professional knowledge, autonomy, and broad organisational influence.

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.

Candidate Pack

The Divisional Director has overall responsibility and accountability for developing and implementing the strategy and business plan for the Division to support the Trust Annual Plan.

Divisional Directors will be expected to help shape the Trust’s strategy and business plans, supporting the overall implementation of the Trust’s strategy, enabling good cross‑Divisional working and contribute to major strategic developments

Set clear objectives and performance standards for all services within the division, ensuring alignment with Trust\-wide goals and regulatory requirements.

Monitor and evaluate service delivery using key performance indicators (KPIs), clinical outcomes, and patient feedback. Take proactive steps to address underperformance, risks, or emerging issues including analysing service delivery issues and developing action plans

Foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement, empowering teams to take ownership of their areas and encouraging innovation in service delivery.

Ensure compliance with national and local standards, maintaining high levels of patient safety, quality, and efficiency

Design robust operational frameworks that define processes, roles, and responsibilities across the division, supporting effective decision\-making and resource allocation.

Oversee the allocation and management of financial, human, and physical resources, ensuring optimal use to deliver high\-quality care within budgetary constraints.

Please see attached Job Description and Person Specification for full duties and responsibilities.

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