Clinical Lead – Neonatal Operational Delivery Network (ODN) South East

Job Overview

The South East Critical Care Strategic Network (CCSN) offers a Clinical Lead – Neonatal Operational Delivery Network position, hosted within University Hospital Southampton – Division C. The role is a fixed‑term contract of three years, beginning in October 2026. The Clinical Lead will provide senior clinical leadership across the South East Neonatal Network, initially focusing on Thames Valley and Wessex, supporting the delivery of safe, effective, equitable, and high‑quality neonatal care and aligning with national, regional, and system priorities.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide senior clinical leadership across the South East Neonatal Network.
• Lead and contribute to the development and delivery of the network workplan, driving quality improvement, service transformation, workforce sustainability, education and training, and reducing unwarranted variation in neonatal outcomes.
• Collaborate with neonatal clinical teams, provider organisations, Integrated Care Boards, and wider system partners to strengthen clinical engagement, promote best practice and innovation, and support a coordinated, data‑informed, population‑focused approach to neonatal care across TVW and KSS.

Qualifications, Training & Experience

Essential Criteria

• MBBS or equivalent medical qualification.
• GMC registration with a licence to practise.
• Specialist training and relevant knowledge base in neonatal care.
• Experience working at a senior level within the specialty.
• Demonstrable track record of leading change.
• Experience with multi‑disciplinary teamwork and working across organisational boundaries.
• Knowledge and experience of working in formal clinical networks within the NHS.
• Understanding of clinical governance, risk management, and use of data to improve quality and productivity.

Desirable Criteria

• Management qualification.
• Senior NHS leadership experience at Trust level (departmental or divisional lead clinician).
• Knowledge of service improvement tools and techniques.
• Understanding of commissioning and contracting processes.

Aptitudes and Skills

Essential Criteria

• Evidence and ability to work effectively in multi‑professional teams.
• Excellent leadership skills and the ability to build and motivate high‑performing teams.
• Highly effective interpersonal and communication skills, including listening.
• Understanding of equality and diversity and how this affects patients, visitors and staff.
• Strong negotiation, persuasion and influencing skills.
• Ability to deal with conflict and challenge.
• Ability to manage complex issues where a high degree of judgement is required.
• Ability to think strategically and support the network with transformational change where necessary to meet standards.
• Research, audit and clinical governance experience.

Desirable Criteria

• Involvement in regional or national speciality training or curriculum development.

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