Deputy Head of Service (Rare Disease) - NHS
Job overview
Permanent, Full time, Hybrid
An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the Sheffield Diagnostic Genetics Service as Deputy Head of Service for Rare Disease.
You will lead our Rare Disease Scientist team in Sheffield (totalling approximately 35 colleagues), including bioinformatics, core and five specialist service teams (Haematology, Neurology, Musculoskeletal, Respiratory, and Gastrohepatology).This team delivers analysis, interpretation, and reporting, and works with clinicians to develop services.
You will be an important member of the senior management team, who lead over 100 colleagues in delivering rare disease and oncology genomics services as part of the NEY GLH, with partners in Leeds and Newcastle. In April 2024, SDGS became a focussed, ‘dry’ analysis and reporting department, receiving ‘wet’ lab work data/results from our partner laboratories.
We’re looking for a compassionate, accountable person who shares our values of respect, inclusion, and excellence. Apply today to join our team and help us make a difference!
Main duties of the job
Reporting into the Head of Laboratory, your responsibilities will include:
- Deliver Sheffield’s Rare Disease services for the NEY GLH
- Provide guidance to the scientific teams, including those at other NEY GLH sites.
- Provide clinical liaison with clinical service users, including those from extended geographical boundaries.
- Deputise for the NEY GLH Rare Disease Lead Scientist and local Head of Laboratory when needed.
- Develop specialist expertise in clinical and managerial areas under the supervision of the Lead Scientist and local Head of Laboratory.
- Contribute to the operational and scientific management of the local laboratory and its staff.
Working for our organisation
At Sheffield Children’s, our purpose is clear: to provide healthier futures for children and young people. Our three strategic aims are:
- Outstanding Patient Care
- Brilliant Place to work
- Leaders in Children’s Health
We work successfully with local, regional, and national partners to provide physical and mental healthcare across acute and community settings. Many of our clinicians are amongst the best in their field, recognised nationally and internationally for their expertise.
As well as having enormous pride in what we do, we are a friendly, welcoming, and motivated NHS Trust who are guided by our CARE values: Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence. Our nearly 4000 colleagues live these values, ensuring kind and compassionate care that makes patients and their families feel safe and at home.
As we approach our 150th anniversary in 2026, we remain committed to enhancing our reputation in children’s health leadership, improving the experiences of both patient and colleagues, and focusing on our communities and population health.
Sheffield Children's provides great benefits to support your wellbeing, with excellent annual leave and pension schemes, health programmes, and exclusive discounts—helping you succeed at work and beyond.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
For more information on the main responsibilities for this post, please refer to the job description and person specification.
Please note that Sheffield Children's uplift pay to meet the Real Living Wage, which is £12.60 per hour.
Diversity Statement
At Sheffield Children’s, we are committed to creating an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and supports everyone’s success. We prioritise Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion in our recruitment practices, creating a welcoming space for people of all backgrounds, including ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and LGBTQ+ members.
Recognising that inclusivity is an ongoing effort, we review our processes and welcome feedback to enhance our practices. A diverse team strengthens our organisation and the quality of care we deliver. For ideas on how we can improve, please contact our Recruitment Manager at [email protected].Together, we’re building a workplace where everyone belongs.
#LI-Hybrid
Person specification
Qualifications and Training
Essential criteria- Degree level education (or equivalent), plus further specialist training, experience, research or study to Master’s degree level or equivalent.
- Registered in appropriate scheme for Healthcare Scientist.
- Fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists (FRCPath) or equivalent such as PhD or experience.
- A relevant higher degree such as a PhD in an appropriate subject.
Experience
Essential criteria- Experience in Genetics over a wide range of services with substantial experience of service planning, development and delivery.
- Management experience some of which is at a senior level.
- Research experience as evidenced by publication, supervision or successful grant application.
- Evidence of experience at a national level in Genetics.
Knowledge and Skills
Essential criteria- Good computer skills and familiarity with data analysis packages.