Neonatal Operational Delivery Network Manager

Neonatal Operational Delivery Network Manager

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Are you an experienced clinical network leader with the passion, credibility and strategic vision to shape neonatal care across a major region? We are seeking an exceptional Band 8b Operational Delivery Network (ODN) Manager to lead the Neonatal Critical Care ODN within the newly formed Strategic Network for Critical Care (SNCC).

For an overview of the main duties of the role please see the ‘Job Description and Main Responsibilities’ section below. To understand the day‑to‑day responsibilities in more detail please read the full job description document attached.

As one of the largest acute teaching Trusts in England, we offer learning and development opportunities to help you achieve the career you aspire to. All non‑clinical roles may involve a mixture of on‑site and remote working, with specific details and flexible working options discussed as part of the interview process. UHS employees are able to access a range of NHS discounts, are entitled to a minimum of 35 days paid holiday (pro‑ratata), and we offer a generous pension scheme.

Southampton is an attractive place to live and work situated on the south coast, with an international airport and direct trains to London. The New Forest National Park and beaches of the Jurassic coast are also right on our doorstep. The city offers living costs 20% lower than London and 14 schools rated outstanding by Ofsted.

The ODN manager role is predominantly remote‑working from home with travel to providers/trusts around the geographical footprint of the network. Employees residing outside the network footprint will have their contractual base set as UHS.

The SNCC spans the entire South East of England, bringing together the Adult Critical Care and Neonatal Critical Care Operational Delivery Networks across:

• Thames Valley & Wessex (TVW)
• Kent, Surrey & Sussex (KSS)

Across these localities, we deliver seven core functions critical to high‑quality, equitable care:

• Resources
• Workforce
• Quality
• Collaboration
• Transformation
• Population Health

Our work is underpinned by strong partnerships with commissioners, ICBs and providers to ensure system‑wide improvement.

Reporting to the Head of Strategic Network, you will be responsible for leading and managing the Neonatal ODN across TVW and KSS. This is a pivotal leadership role at an exciting point of transformation.

In 2025/26, the ODNs have come together under the new SNCC umbrella, resulting in redesigned structures, strengthened governance and refreshed funding arrangements. This transition brings opportunities to modernise how we work, enhance cross‑regional collaboration and embed agile ways of operating across both the core network team and wider stakeholders.

• Provide strategic and operational leadership for the Neonatal ODN
• Oversee delivery of key workplans aligned to all seven core network functions
• Lead system‑wide engagement with providers, commissioners, clinical leaders and families
• Manage governance, assurance and performance frameworks across the network
• Support new ways of working, enabling teams to operate more flexibly and effectively
• Champion quality improvement, equity, safety and workforce development across neonatal services
• Ensure the network is positioned for future sustainability, innovation and national priorities

We are looking for a dynamic, influential and compassionate leader with:

• Significant experience in operational delivery networks, commissioning, or system‑level healthcare leadership
• Deep understanding of neonatal services or critical care pathways (highly desirable)
• Proven ability to lead complex programmes, manage stakeholder relationships and deliver measurable impact
• Strong governance, analytical and strategic planning skills
• A collaborative approach with the ability to inspire teams through change and transformation

• Lead one of the most established and respected Neonatal ODNs in England
• Influence service delivery and outcomes for babies and…