Governance director

Job Summary

Are you an exceptional governance leader looking for an opportunity to influence organisational strategy, Board effectiveness, and corporate accountability at the highest level?

The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust is seeking an outstanding Director of Corporate Governance to join our Executive Leadership Team. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, this pivotal Board-level role will provide independent assurance on the effectiveness of the Trust's governance, accountability, risk, and decision-making arrangements.

As the Trust's most senior governance professional, you will act as a trusted adviser to the Chair, Chief Executive, Board of Directors and Board Committees, ensuring governance arrangements support the successful delivery of strategic objectives while maintaining the highest standards of transparency, integrity, and accountability.

Main duties of the job

This is a high-profile leadership position responsible for:

• Leading the Trust's corporate governance strategy and governance framework
• Providing expert advice on governance, accountability, constitutional compliance, and Board effectiveness
• Leading the development and oversight of the Board Assurance Framework and governance systems
• Supporting effective decision-making, organisational accountability, and regulatory compliance
• Leading the Corporate Governance and Executive Assistant functions
• Acting as the Trust's senior lead for Information Governance, including data protection, records management, information security, and Freedom of Information compliance
• Providing objective challenge and assurance to Board members and senior leaders on governance and risk matters

About us

The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust (PAHT) is proud to care for the communities of West Essex, delivering safe, compassionate, and high-quality services. We are part of the Neighbourhood Wave; a national programme that is changing how care is delivered by focusing on prevention, early support, and more joined-up services across health, social care, and the voluntary sector. This means we are working more closely with local partners to bring care closer to home and support people to live healthier, more independent lives.

We are a supportive and inclusive organisation that values its people. We offer development opportunities, flexible working, and a strong focus on wellbeing.

As a Disability Confident and equal opportunities employer, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. Join us and help shape the future of care in West Essex.

Job Description

We are looking for a highly credible and politically astute leader with:

• Significant senior leadership experience within a large and complex organisation.
• Extensive experience advising Boards, Chief Executives, Chairs and Executive teams on governance and accountability matters.
• Experience leading corporate governance, assurance, compliance, or company secretariat functions.
• Expertise in governance frameworks, risk management, Board assurance, and regulatory compliance.
• Outstanding communication, influencing, and stakeholder management skills.
• The ability to provide independent judgement, constructive challenge, and strategic leadership.

Persons Specification

Qualifications

Essential

• Master's degree or equivalent level experience gained through senior governance leadership roles
• Professional qualification in governance, law, company secretariat, public administration or related field

Desirable

• Chartered Governance Institute (CGIUKI) qualification or equivalent
• Leadership, risk management or information governance qualification

Experience

Essential

• Significant senior leadership experience within a large, complex organisation
• Extensive experience advising Boards, Chairs, Chief Executives and Executive teams on governance and accountability matters