Senior Project Manager
Job summary
Pathology Redesign Programme
Lead digital transformation in one of the South Wests most ambitious healthcare programmes
Were looking for an experienced and motivated Senior Project Manager to join our Digital Services team and help deliver a major transformation of pathology services across the region.
This is a rare opportunity to play a key role in the Pathology Consolidated Services Laboratory (CSL) programmea flagship initiative that will modernise services, improve patient pathways, and create a sustainable model for pathology across the Peninsula Pathology Network.
Main duties of the job
For more detail about the main duties of this role, please see the job description section below. As a key member of the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, you will be joining an exceptional team working together to help our patients to stay healthy, when they need it most.
About us
Stretching across Northern, Eastern and Mid Devon, we have a workforce of over 15,000 staff, making us the largest employer in Devon. Our core services, which we provide to more than 615,000 people, cover more than 2,000 square miles across Devon, while some of our specialist services cover the whole of the peninsula, extending our reach as far as Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
We deliver a wide range of emergency, specialist and general medical services through North Devon District Hospital and the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (Wonford).
Alongside our two acute hospitals, we provide integrated health and social care services across a variety of settings, including community inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics, and within peoples own homes. We also offer primary care services, a range of specialist community services, and Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC).
Our state-of-the-art equipment, leading technologies and strong links to local universities put us at the forefront of research and innovations, enabling us to provide world-class care to our local communities.
Its never been a more exciting time to join the Royal Devon, as youll help to shape our services as we continue along our integration journey.
Job description
Job responsibilities
For more information on the Job Description and Responsibilities please click the link below.
Why this role is exciting
Our current pathology facilities are no longer fit for modern, automated laboratory practice. This programme will deliver a state-of-the-art, purpose-built laboratory at Gadeon House in Exeter, enabling:
- Advanced automation and improved workflows
- Greater efficiency and reduced duplication
- Increased capacity and resilience
- A more sustainable, future-focused workforce model
From 2027, Blood Sciences and Microbiology services will transition into the new facilitymaking this programme a critical step-change in how pathology services are delivered.
As a Senior Project Manager, youll be at the heart of making this vision a reality.
More detail about the role
As part of the Digital Services team, you will lead the delivery of a portfolio of complex digital projects that support both:
- The construction and commissioning of the new CSL
- The safe and effective relocation of pathology services
You will:
- Lead multidisciplinary teams across Digital Services, Pathology, Estates, and external partners
- Plan and deliver multiple complex projects, ensuring outcomes are achieved on time and within budget
- Manage risks, dependencies, and competing priorities in a high-profile programme
- Work closely with clinical, operational, and technical stakeholders to deliver integrated digital solutions
- Support service redesign and business process improvement alongside programme leads
- Oversee supplier delivery and ensure value and quality from digital investments
- Provide clear reporting and insights to senior stakeholders and governance forums
You will play a critical role in ensuring systems, infrastructure, and services are ready to support patients and clinicians from day one in the new facility.
About you
Youll be a confident project leader who thrives in complex environments and can bring people together to deliver change.
Were looking for someone who has:
- Significant experience managing complex projects, teams, and budgets at a senior level
- Strong project management expertise (PRINCE2 or equivalent)
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills
- Experience working across multidisciplinary teams and external partners
- The ability to analyse complex information and make informed decisions
- A passion for improving services and delivering meaningful change in healthcare
Experience within the NHS or public sector is desirable.
What youll get in return
- The opportunity to work on a high-profile, future-focused transformation programme
- A chance to directly impact patient care and diagnostic services across the region
- A collaborative, supportive Digital Services team
- Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development
Join us
This is more than a project roleits a chance to shape the future of pathology services and deliver lasting improvements for patients and staff.
If youre ready to take on a career-defining challenge and lead digital delivery at scale, wed love to hear from you.
Working Pattern: 9 - 5 Mon - Fri, although will need to be flexible in line with project Go timelines.
Interview Date: To Be Confirmed (will likely be w/c 8th June 2026)
For further information please contact: Chris Hutchings, Digital Programme Manager via email at chrishutchings@nhs.co.uk
This is a fixed term contract until 31/05/2027. For current NHS employees this post could be a secondment opportunity.
As an inclusive employer, the Royal Devon values diversity and is committed to creating a culture of inclusivity where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. We believe in fostering a sense of belonging and actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities. We recognise the advantages of having a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.
Preference will be given to staff with Priority and 'At Risk' status including NHS At Risk staff throughout Devon.
The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust reserves the right to close vacancy when sufficient applications have been received.
The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust was established in April 2022, bringing together the expertise of both the Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust and Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust.
Benefits
We will work together to maintain a culture that develops and supports you and your team.
This might include funding for a care certificate, a degree or leadership qualifications. Or it might include days off to study, engage in CPD or rotational placements to help you hone your skills. Wherever you are heading in the NHS, we'll help you get there.
Looking after you is important to us.
We strive to help our staff create a healthy work-life balance through flexible working schemes and our family friendly policies.
If you're starting out in the NHS, you'll start with 27 days paid annual leave (plus bank holidays), rising to 33 days plus bank holidays.
You'll benefit from access to our own comprehensive occupational health services, including counselling, onsite wellbeing activities and groups.
Salary is not the only financial benefit
You'll have access to an extensive range of staff discounts on shopping, fitness and leisure options and you can spread the cost of technology and home appliance purchases from major retailers.
You will also have access to other benefits including:
National discount services such as the Blue Light Card and Health Service Discounts.
Salary sacrifice options including our OFSTED rated outstanding nursery onsite at Exeter
Car lease schemes.
The NHS Pension scheme (one of the most generous and comprehensive in the UK).
Cycle to work scheme
These are just a few of the benefits available if the role is something you are interested in, we'd love to hear from you.
Person Specification
General Requirements
- See job description text above, and (where applicable) you can download a copy of the full job description
- See job description text above, and (where applicable) you can download a copy of the full job description
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Employer details
Employer name
Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Address
Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Exeter
Devon
EX2 4QD
Employer's website
https://royaldevon.nhs.uk/