Job reference: 244515
Salary: Grade E (£104,895 - £135,060)
Job closing date: 29/04/2026
Job Type: Executive Level
Location: The Balfour
Employment type: Permanent
Hours Per Week: 37.5
Job posted date: 02/04/2026
Employer (NHS Board): NHS Orkney
Department: Executive Directors

Job Advert

Join Us as Our Next Chief Executive at NHS Orkney!

Are you a visionary leader with a passion for making a difference? NHS Orkney is on a transformative journey, and we are seeking an exceptional individual to lead us as our next Chief Executive. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of healthcare in one of the most beautiful and supportive communities in the world.

About Us - NHS Orkney is dedicated to providing high-quality, person-centred care to our vibrant island community. With a commitment to innovation, collaboration, and compassion, we are focused on reconnecting with our patients, community, partners, and staff to build services that genuinely meet local needs.

The Role - As our Chief Executive, you will play a central role in shaping our organisation's future. You will lead cultural change, strengthen relationships, and keep compassion at the core of everything we do. This role provides a real opportunity to be at the forefront of service improvements across our health and social care system.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead the strategic vision and direction of NHS Orkney through visible and compassionate leadership.
  • Develop and strengthen partnerships with key stakeholders, including Orkney Islands Council, the voluntary sector, and other partners
  • Bringing the Board back into financial balance
  • Ensure the delivery of high-quality, safe, and person-centred care across our islands 5.
  • Drive the implementation of our Corporate Strategy 2024-2028 and engage with staff, patients, and the community to align our services with their needs

Why Orkney? Orkney is a remarkable place to live and work. With breathtaking landscapes, a strong and supportive community, and a pace of life that allows you to breathe, the islands offer something truly unique. We are well connected with direct flights to major Scottish cities, yet we hold on to the things that make island life special.

What We Offer

  • A chance to lead with purpose and make a real difference in a remote and rural setting 9.
  • An opportunity to be part of a vibrant, welcoming, and innovative community 9.
  • A supportive environment where you can shape the future of healthcare while enjoying an exceptional quality of life 10.

Join Us - If you are an inspirational leader with the drive, vision, and experience to lead NHS Orkney, we want to hear from you. Join us on our journey of improvement and help us deliver the best possible care to our community.

If you’d like an informal confidential chat about the role, please in the first instance contact Mary Beale, Robin Staveley or Niamh Blair of GatenbySanderson via mary.beale@gatenbysanderson.com.

Take a look around the company https://jobs.scot.nhs.uk/