Job summary
We are seeking an enthusiastic, versatile individual and experienced HCPC registered Healthcare Scientist with a strong interest and track record in the laboratory diagnosis of inherited red cell disorders to join the UK NEQAS Haematology scientific team.
Reporting directly to the Scheme Director, you will be responsible for co-ordinating the UK NEQAS Haemoglobinopathy and Red Cell Enzymopathy programmes ensuring that the UK NEQAS Haemoglobinopathy service is delivered in a timely, cost-effective and professional manner.
UK National External Quality Assessment Service (NEQAS) is an impartial, independent, and self-financing expert centre for the provision of external quality assessment (EQA) for all aspects of Haematology and Blood Transfusion laboratory testing. UK NEQAS Haematology and Blood Transfusion deliver a diverse and extensive programme of EQA services and advice to over 1400 participating laboratories in the UK and worldwide.
The Haematology and Blood Transfusion services are operated by West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, and the unit is based in a bespoke unit designed and built specifically for our use in the Croxley Business Park in Watford.
The unit consists of approximately 30 people, which includes 12 Haematology staff, 6 Blood Transfusion staff, and the remainder who work in the joint Receipt & Dispatch (R&D), Administration, and IT teams.
Main duties of the job
The post-holder will coordinate the UK NEQAS Haematology haemoglobinopathy and red cell enzymopathy programmes, which includes the implementation and development of new techniques and pilot initiatives.
This role presents a chance for candidates to highlight their leadership, analytical, and communication skills, alongside their understanding of laboratory techniques and the principles of quality management.
While prior experience in staff management and team leadership is beneficial, we invite applicants who are eager to develop these skills and demonstrate their potential.
Effective planning and organisational skills for managing multiple work streams are essential, and a self-motivated, adaptable mindset will enable you to excel in our dynamic environment. We value those who enjoy exchanging ideas, influencing policy, and are ready to embrace change.
Applicants should indicate in their application how they meet the person specification and why they feel they are suitable for this role.
About us
With a new hospital planned for Watford and work underway to update theatres at St Albans City Hospital, this is an exciting time to join us.
We are building on the success of our award-winning virtual hospital and re-imaging models of care, working ever more closely with partners and making the most of advances in digital healthcare.
Staff wellbeing and development are a priority at our Trust, as is the role of innovation in improving clinical care, outcomes and patient experience.
Our vision is Excellent patient care, together and our values are to be empowered, compassionate, professional and inclusive. They capture an important balance across what we must all do as individuals and to support others.
At West Herts we offer a variety of flexible working options as we recognise the importance of a good work life balance and the ability to work flexibly. https://www.westhertshospitals.nhs.uk/flexibleworking/
We kindly invite you to consider submitting an application.
If you have a disability or long-term health condition and should you require support or guidance please contact westherts.recruitment@nhs.net
If you are a Service Leaver, Veteran, Military Reserve, Cadet Force Adult Volunteer, or partner/spouse of those serving please tick "Member of the Armed Forces Community" on the application form.
If you do not hear back within 3 weeks of your application, please assume you have been unsuccessful on this occasion.
Job description
Job responsibilities
Please refer to the attached job description and person specification for a full list of duties and details about the role.
Core hours are 37.5 per week, Monday to Friday, 09:00 am to 17:30 pm.
Job description
Job responsibilities
Please refer to the attached job description and person specification for a full list of duties and details about the role.
Core hours are 37.5 per week, Monday to Friday, 09:00 am to 17:30 pm.
Person Specification
Education and qualifications:
Essential
- Degree or equivalent professional qualification.
- MSc, FIBMS Special in Haematology or equivalent qualification.
- Current HCPC registration.
- Evidence of active participation in CPD.
Desirable
- Management or leadership qualification.
Knowledge:
Essential
- Specialist knowledge of laboratory haemoglobinopathy and enzymopathies theory and practice, including the principles of operation of automated haemoglobinopathy systems.
- A comprehensive understanding of the principles and practice of laboratory quality management.
- Knowledge of staff management and the capability to handle conflict resolution.
- A comprehensive understanding of the role of EQA and the fundamentals of quality management systems as part of laboratory quality assurance.
- Basic statistical knowledge.
Desirable
- Knowledge of laboratory haematology theory and practice, including the principles of operation of automated haematology systems.
- Knowledge of Project management.
Experience:
Essential
- Extensive senior-level experience in laboratory haematology, with a focus in the laboratory diagnoses of haemoglobinopathies.
- Experience of staff management and supervision.
- Experience of the use of laboratory information or data management systems.
- Experience of word processing and spreadsheet applications.
Desirable
- Experience in EQA service provision.
- Experience in practical research and development projects or project management.
- Experience in report writing and/or oral presentations.
- Experience in conflict resolution.
Person Specification
Education and qualifications:
Essential
- Degree or equivalent professional qualification.
- MSc, FIBMS Special in Haematology or equivalent qualification.
- Current HCPC registration.
- Evidence of active participation in CPD.
Desirable
- Management or leadership qualification.
Knowledge:
Essential
- Specialist knowledge of laboratory haemoglobinopathy and enzymopathies theory and practice, including the principles of operation of automated haemoglobinopathy systems.
- A comprehensive understanding of the principles and practice of laboratory quality management.
- Knowledge of staff management and the capability to handle conflict resolution.
- A comprehensive understanding of the role of EQA and the fundamentals of quality management systems as part of laboratory quality assurance.
- Basic statistical knowledge.
Desirable
- Knowledge of laboratory haematology theory and practice, including the principles of operation of automated haematology systems.
- Knowledge of Project management.
Experience:
Essential
- Extensive senior-level experience in laboratory haematology, with a focus in the laboratory diagnoses of haemoglobinopathies.
- Experience of staff management and supervision.
- Experience of the use of laboratory information or data management systems.
- Experience of word processing and spreadsheet applications.
Desirable
- Experience in EQA service provision.
- Experience in practical research and development projects or project management.
- Experience in report writing and/or oral presentations.
- Experience in conflict resolution.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).
From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).
UK Registration
Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see
NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).
Additional information
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).
From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).
UK Registration
Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see
NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).
