(**) Non-Executive Director | Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust

As members of a unitary Board, Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) share a collective duty to promote the success of the organisation and maximise benefits for patients and the wider public.

The Board is collectively accountable for the performance of the NHS Foundation Trust. NEDs provide constructive challenge and scrutiny of the Trust’s performance against its agreed goals and objectives. They must assure themselves of the integrity of financial, clinical and other information and seek assurance that effective systems of governance and risk management are in place and operating effectively.

NEDs play a vital role in bringing an independent perspective to Board discussions, alongside the specific knowledge, skills and experience they contribute.

NEDs are also expected to uphold the highest standards of probity and integrity, act in accordance with the Trust’s values, and foster positive and effective working relationships within the Boardroom.

Interviews to be held in February 2027

As a Non-Executive Director, you will

To assist the Board of Directors in setting the strategic direction of the organisation, whilst considering the views of the Council of Governors.

Together with the Board of Directors, hold the Executive Team to account for the delivery of the agreed strategic objectives and Trust’s annual plan.

To provide constructive, considered and appropriate challenge to the Board of Directors on areas where improvements are needed or assurance is lacking.

To ensure that the Trust places patient safety at the heart of its work and that mechanisms are in place to ensure staff are able to speak up.

To ensure that the Trust manages risk effectively.

To provide advice and guidance to the Trust on issues relevant to the NED’s own skills, expertise and experience.

Together with the Board of Directors, work with local communities and collaborate with partner organisations to address health inequalities and ensure that the Trust provides the best possible care for local communities.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of duties.

Our ambition is to deliver excellent local and specialist services, to improve the health and well being of our patients, and provide a vibrant place for staff to develop, innovate and build careers.

We aim to make the most of our skills and experiences so we can become the best we can be. As one organisation we will recruit the finest and retain more specialist staff due to more employment opportunities across our Trust

As a Non-Executive Director, you will help shape the Trust’s strategic direction while providing independent oversight and constructive challenge to the Executive Team. The role is responsible for ensuring strong governance, effective risk management, high-quality patient care, regulatory compliance, and a culture that prioritises patient safety, staff wellbeing, equality, diversity and inclusion.

You will support the Board in driving transformation and continuous improvement, ensuring services are informed by population need, patient and staff insight, clinical evidence, and sustainable use of resources. The role also champions research, innovation, community engagement and co-production, helping to reduce health inequalities and improve outcomes for patients and local communities.

NEDs work closely with the Council of Governors, support senior appointments, participate in Board and committee evaluations, undertake service visits, and provide advice based on their professional expertise. The position requires a minimum commitment of 3-4 days per month, participation in ongoing development activities, and compliance with the Fit and Proper Persons Test and conflict of interest requirements.

We look forward to your application!

This advert closes on Tuesday 24 Nov 2026