Head of Clinical Quality and Governance

Overview

In this role you will lead the systems and culture for safe, effective, and continually improving care at Willen Hospice. You’ll own clinical governance, audit, risk management and incident learning, partnering with clinical leads to embed learning and regulatory confidence. You will prepare for CQC inspections, produce the Quality Account, and oversee training that underpins high-quality palliative and end-of-life care. This position shapes practice across wards, home visits, and family conversations, not just policies, delivering meaningful impact in a compassionate setting.

Pay / Benefits

• 35 days’ holiday
• contributory pension scheme
• enhanced maternity/sick pay
• ongoing professional development
• free on-site parking
• Blue Light Card discounts

Responsibilities

• Lead clinical governance, audit, risk management and incident learning
• Drive readiness for Care Quality Commission inspection
• Produce the annual Quality Account
• Act as Controlled Drugs Accountable Officer
• Line manage Practice Development Lead and Data Analyst
• Shape training and evidence base for high-quality palliative and end-of-life care across Willen Hospice
• Embed a culture of learning and continuous improvement across the organisation
• Collaborate with directors and clinical leads to ensure safe and effective care

Key requirements

• Substantial experience in a senior clinical governance, quality or risk management role
• Working knowledge of CQC fundamental standards and regulatory inspection processes
• Proven track record in leading clinical audit and quality improvement programmes with measurable impact
• Experience investigating incidents/complaints including root cause analysis and PSIRF
• Clear presentation skills and ability to support staff in challenging situations
• Genuine commitment to hospice values and mission

• Clear, empathetic communication
• Warmth and staff-supportive leadership
• Ability to present clearly to diverse stakeholders
• Knowledge of Care Quality Commission fundamental standards
• Experience with incident investigation and root cause analysis
• Familiarity with Patient Safety Incident Response Framework (PSIRF)

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