Overview

South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust (SLaM) is seeking a credible and experienced Director of Corporate Governance to help strengthen our organisation and guide us through the next stage of our development. This is a key leadership role at one of the country’s most recognised mental health providers.

SLaM is an internationally respected provider of mental health services to around 1.3 million people across Croydon, Lambeth, Lewisham and Southwark, as well as a number of national and specialist services. We employ more than 6,000 staff and have an annual turnover of around £600m. Our close academic partnership with King’s College London and membership of King’s Health Partners mean we combine care, research and education to improve outcomes for patients and families.

We are proud of our contribution to the communities we serve, but we also recognise the scale of the challenges we face. Demand for mental health care continues to rise, and we are responding through service improvement, modernisation and innovation. We are investing in major infrastructure developments, advancing our digital capabilities, and strengthening our governance arrangements. We are in the process of a CQC Well-led inspection and mapping areas where we are making progress and where we must go further.

Role and responsibilities

The Director of Corporate Governance will ensure our Board of Directors and Council of Governors operate effectively, transparently and with integrity. You will lead the corporate governance function, providing assurance to the Chair and Chief Executive and supporting colleagues across the Trust to uphold the highest standards of accountability. You will also play a vital role in enabling the Trust to respond well to scrutiny, learn lessons from experience, and make clear and timely decisions that improve services for patients.

Candidate profile

We are looking for a confident, capable and resilient leader with a a strong track record of delivering effective corporate governance in complex organisations. As a candidate, you will need to demonstrate a firm grasp of statutory and regulatory frameworks with the ability to support cultural change and inspire confidence across the Trust. You will need to bring sound judgement, political awareness and personal credibility, alongside the ability to work constructively with colleagues and stakeholders at all levels. NHS experience is strongly desirable, however what matters most is your ability to apply your expertise in a large and accountable public service organisation.

Values and culture

This role requires a candidate who is values-driven, inclusive and committed to public service. You will be visible and accessible, supporting a culture where diverse voices are heard and where openness and transparency are the norm. You will help our Trust deliver its ambition to become an anti-racist organisation. You will understand the human impact of good governance, ensuring that the structures and systems you oversee ultimately help to safeguard patients, support staff, reduce inequalities and improve outcomes.

What we offer and next steps

This is a demanding but rewarding role. It offers the chance to work with a committed Board, a new Chair and directly supporting the executive team to strengthen an organisation that makes a difference to thousands of lives every year. If you are ready to bring your experience, perspective and integrity to SLaM, we would be delighted to hear from you.