Chief Executive Officer, NHS Employers Full Time

Following the promotion of our present postholder, the NHS Confederation is seeking an outstanding leader to serve as Chief Executive of NHS Employers, representing NHS organisations on people policy and leading a high-impact team at the heart of the NHS Confederation.

About the role:

• Act as the key representative for NHS organisations on workforce and people policy, working closely with government, NHS bodies, and trade unions, influencing health and employment policy to improve workforce management and support more equitable, healthier communities.
• Lead our people in the delivery of the NHS Employers contract and work programmes, ensuring high-quality services for the DHSC, other commissioners and our members
• Support the renewal and integration of the wider organisation as NHS Confederation and NHS Providers come together to represent and support the health sector.
• Drive continuous improvement across all programmes and ensure operational excellence, financial health, and compliance, reporting to the Board of Trustees.

About you:

• Proven executive leadership in complex environments.
• Ability to define and communicate clear direction, translating vision into action.
• Demonstrates inclusive leadership values, with a commitment to fairness, equity, diversity, and staff development.
• Strong track record in financial stewardship and people management, ideally with NHS and HR experience..
• Excellent communicator and advocate, credible in high-profile settings, and adept at building coalitions and engaging diverse stakeholders.

To apply

Please download the job description found at the end of this page and click apply to complete the application form. Please note we do not accept CVs.

For an informal discussion about the post and the NHS Confederation before applying please contact Danny Mortimer, CEO on 0113 306 3040 or Daniel.Mortimer@nhsemployers.org

Application deadline: 11th February 2026 (midnight)

Interview date: 26th February 2026

Join us to shape the future of NHS workforce policy and make a lasting impact on health and care across England.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: £150,000.00-£170,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Company pension
• Cycle to work scheme
• Employee discount
• Enhanced maternity leave
• Free flu jabs
• Health & wellbeing programme
• Sabbatical
• Sick pay
• Work from home

C1EO