North of Scotland Public Health Network Lead

Fixed term / Secondment for 2 years

NHS Highland is seeking an individual to take on the role of North of Scotland Public Health Network Lead. This position offers an exciting opportunity to provide both operational and strategic coordination as well as professional leadership for cross-boundary public health work. Reporting to the Health Improvement Principal, the successful candidate will be responsible for an extensive portfolio of public health initiatives that address regional needs effectively.

As the Public Health Network Lead, you will provide health improvement leadership within regional NHS groups to support the strategic development and implementation of public health work streams. Your role includes managing resources, delivering effective public health programs, and leading the coordination of public health input to regional planning, health protection, health intelligence, and health improvement, with a special focus on public mental health. Additional responsibilities include ensuring adherence to legal and professional obligations, implementing annual work plans, and providing supervision and professional support.

To excel in this role, you should possess public health expertise and significant experience in managing public health projects. A background in strategic planning and resource management is essential, along with the ability to influence and lead within regional NHS groups. Excellent communication skills are crucial as you will be responsible for conveying specialist information to various stakeholders, including Directors of Public Health, Consultants, and regional planning groups. Familiarity with general IT systems and adherence to Data Protection and Freedom of Information Acts are also required.

The ideal candidate will hold a degree and relevant postgraduate qualification in health improvement/public health. Professional registration with the UK Public Health Register is preferred. A minimum of five years' experience in health improvement/public health, with strategic planning and partnership working skills, is essential. The candidate should have at least two years' management experience and demonstrate knowledge in health improvement principles, evidence-based practice, budget and project management, and policy development.

For more information please contact Tim Allison, Director of Public Health; email:

NHS Scotland is committed to encouraging equality and diversity among our workforce and eliminating unlawful discrimination. The aim is for our workforce to be truly representative and for each employee to feel respected and able to give their best. To this end, NHS Scotland welcomes applications from all sections of society.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR CANDIDATES

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NHS Highland is geographically the largest of the 14 regional boards of NHS Scotland, covering an area of 12,500 square miles, across Highland and Argyll & Bute.

As a board we strive to ensure the environment is conducive to nurturing a positive culture, supported and delivered through our NHS and Social Care values.