Transformation Partner

Role Overview

Based in Harrogate Cardale with occasional travel to regional offices in Leeds, Harrogate, Halifax, and other national locations, the Transformation Partner is a pivotal role that blends digital innovation, clinical excellence, and service design. Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer, this full-time permanent position (37.5 hours per week) focuses on leading the comprehensive lifecycle of transformation programs—from initial research and proof-of-concept through to full implementation and scaling—primarily targeting operational transformation within Oakdale's assessment and therapy services.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive digital strategy by scouting emerging healthcare technologies including AI, maintaining an innovation pipeline with transparent prioritization to transition projects from ideation to executive approval.
• Develop and manage a strategic roadmap aligned with NHS England priorities such as interoperability, data-driven planning, and digital-first care pathways.
• Identify opportunities to integrate digital tools to improve triage, screening, waitlist management, assessments, and follow-up care.
• Lead end-to-end project management for deploying digital platforms, clinical systems, booking solutions, ensuring milestones are met and risks mitigated.
• Coordinate multi-stakeholder delivery teams, bridging clinical, operational, digital units, vendors, and research partners.
• Champion the expansion of the Right to Choose initiative by optimizing systems that handle referrals and outcome tracking.
• Engage service users, clinicians, and administrators in co-designing inclusive, accessible digital care pathways and lead change management efforts for smooth adoption by staff.
• Foster innovation mindset and provide mentoring to build staff capabilities for ongoing transformation.
• Advise on and ensure compliance with Information Governance standards, GDPR, cybersecurity, NHS clinical risk frameworks, and regulatory requirements like CQC standards.

Candidate Profile

• Proven leadership with an ability to translate complex digital concepts for cross-functional teams and contribute to strategic leadership at senior levels.
• Degree or equivalent experience in Digital Health, Health Informatics, IT, Project/Program Management, or Business Administration.
• Track record of managing digital innovation or healthcare service transformation projects in clinical, NHS, or client-facing settings.
• Expertise in user-centered design, rapid iteration, co-production methodologies, and team development under uncertainty with the ability to influence clinicians and teams.
• Solid understanding of clinical systems, digital accessibility standards, data protection laws, and NHS digital strategies.
• Strong organisational capabilities and a passion for improving patient outcomes and operational efficiency.

Preferred Qualifications

• Senior-level stakeholder engagement experience including commissioners.
• Project management certifications such as Agile or PRINCE2.
• Experience in mental health or neurodevelopmental services (e.g., Autism, ADHD, psychological therapies).
• Familiarity with clinical safety standards (DCB 0129/DCB 0160) and NICE evidence standards.
• Capability in drafting operational procedures, business cases, and proposals with excellent communication skills to support high-quality clinical service delivery.

Employee Benefits

• 33 days annual leave (including bank holidays), incremented with service length.
• Flexible and agile working arrangements from the start.
• Access to SimplyHealth services: 24/7 GP, counseling, physiotherapy, and more.
• Discounted ADHD and autism assessments for employees and their families through Oakdale's expert service.
• Fully funded flu vaccinations.
• Mental health champion-led wellbeing initiatives.
• Smart Pension & Rewards program with discounts and cashback opportunities.
• Enhanced Occupational Sick Pay.
• Cycle to Work and Technology Salary Sacrifice schemes.
• Employee discount programs.
• Protected Continuing Professional Development days, annual team away days, and quality training.
• Coverage of professional registration fees where applicable.
• Opportunities to actively influence service improvement and innovation.
• Provision of necessary equipment including laptop, monitor, and keyboard.
• Discounts extend to dependents residing in the same household.

Additional Information

Oakdale is a registered Disability Confident Committed Employer. Early applications are encouraged as the vacancy may close prior to the deadline.