Ward Manager - Surgical Decisions Unit

Job summary

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Ward Manager to lead our Surgical Decision Unit (SDU). This is a key leadership role responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the unit, ensuring the highest standards of patient care, and managing a multidisciplinary team in a fast-paced surgical environment.

The ideal candidate will be a registered nurse (NMC registered) with substantial experience in surgical nursing and leadership. They should have excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, with a passion for delivering high-quality, patient-centered care.

This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in our emergency surgical front door, supporting both patients and healthcare professionals in a challenging yet rewarding role.

Main duties of the job

The Ward Manager will be responsible for coordinating patient flow, supporting clinical decision-making, and ensuring efficient admissions, transfers, and discharges. They will lead and develop the nursing team, promoting a culture of excellence, professional development, and continuous improvement.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing strong clinical leadership and management to nursing staff and support teams.
• Ensuring high standards of patient care, safety, and experience in line with hospital policies and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborating with surgical teams, consultants, and other healthcare professionals to optimise patient outcomes.
• Managing staffing levels, recruitment, training, and professional development of the nursing team.
• Overseeing quality assurance, governance, and compliance with infection control and health and safety protocols.
• Driving service improvements, innovation, and best practices in surgical care.

About us

At Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, we're committed to supporting our employees with a range of benefits designed to enhance your professional and personal life. We offer:

• Flexible working options to help you balance work and life
• NHS pension scheme for long-term financial security
• Generous annual leave allowance to recharge and relax
• A strong focus on career development to help you grow and achieve your potential

Additionally, you'll gain access to our Blue Light Card, unlocking exclusive discounts on shopping, dining, and leisure activities, as well as NHS-specific perks to support you both inside and outside of work.

We are proud to foster a diverse, skilled, and inclusive workforce, and we encourage applications from all backgrounds.

Why Somerset? Somerset offers the perfect blend of idyllic countryside, outstanding areas of natural beauty, and breathtaking coastlines, with vibrant cities like Bristol, Bath, and Exeter just a short drive away - and only two hours to London.

The region is home to excellent educational facilities, and with affordable housing compared to other parts of the country, it's a great place to build both your career and your future.

Somerset truly has it all - the peaceful countryside and cosmopolitan city life, with something for everyone to enjoy.