EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR MEDICAL SERVICES & CLINICAL GOVERNANCE
CANDIDATE INFORMATION PACK
Northern NSW Local Health District
Northern NSW Local Health District acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands and waters where we live and work. We pay our respects to Elders past and present and extend this respect to all Aboriginal people.
Executive Summary
- Strategic Leadership Centred on Reform and Improvement
- Join a Visionary Team at Northern NSW Local Health District
- Opportunity to be future thinking and influence contemporary models of care
THE OPPORTUNITY
At Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD), we are on a mission to become Australia’s leading regional health district. Serving over 300,000 residents, we deliver comprehensive public healthcare through our network of 12 hospitals, 21 community health centres, and various facilities.
We are seeking an Executive Director of Medical Services & Clinical Governance to join our dynamic Executive Leadership Team. This is a unique opportunity for a visionary leader to drive innovation and implement best practices in medical administration across our district, whilst working with multidisciplinary partners to drive success and change across the organisation.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic Leadership: Collaborate closely with the Chief Executive and service leaders to enhance operational management of medical services, ensuring high-quality care and patient safety.
Advisory Role: Provide strategic insights on health service planning, delivery, financial management, clinical governance, and workforce issues, guiding NNSWLHD towards excellence.
Workforce Development: Lead the medical workforce strategy, overseeing planning, professional development, education, and competency for medical officers.
Innovative Care Models: Spearhead the creation and implementation of new models of care that respond to the evolving needs of our community.
This executive position offers a chance to make a meaningful impact in healthcare delivery while shaping the future of our services. If you are passionate about clinical excellence and dedicated to improving health outcomes in our region, we want to hear from you!
A successful applicant for this role will need:
- Current registration or eligibility to be registered with the Medical Board of Australia as a medical practitioner.
- Extensive clinical and operational management experience within a complex health care environment.
- Demonstrated medical administration experience and comprehensive knowledge of and experience in managing current issues in medical workforce.
- Ability to lead and influence change at scale whilst driving measurable outcomes for clinical care delivery.
- Highly developed expertise in strategically managing service budget including financial, physical and human resources, in a large complex health service .
- Expert communication skills with proven negotiation skills and emotional intelligence.
- Successful track record of leading redesign of clinical processes and delivery models.
If you believe you have the leadership and management capabilities in clinical and medical administration, believe you meet the listed criteria, then we would like to talk to you about this strategically vital and new position.
For a confidential discussion, please get in touch with:
Rhodie Miller
HardyGroup Principal Consultant
m. +61 (0)422 816 557
e. [email protected]
NNSWLHD provides a diverse range of public healthcare to over 300,000 residents across the district through 12 hospitals and multi-purpose services, 21 community health centres and other facilities.
NNSWLHD covers a large area in north-eastern NSW extending from Tweed Heads in the north to Tabulam and Urbenville in the west and to Nymboida and Grafton in the south, an area of 20,732 square kilometres.
In 2011 the estimated population within NNSWLHD was 288,241 and is projected to increase by an estimated 16.3% by 2031.The population of persons aged 65 years and older is expected to increase by approximately 71% in the same period.
People of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage make up 5.2 per cent of the population in Northern NSW compared to 3.4 per cent for all NSW*.
The District delivers a broad range of health services in state-of-the-art facilities, with access to general and specialist services. Staff are connected to best-practice medical care throughout Australia thanks to a growing network of training opportunities and relationships with local and metropolitan tertiary education providers.
NNSWLHD is undertaking major capital projects at several facilities, which will support staff and clinicians in providing excellent care to the District’s communities well into the future. Continued developments in Information Communication Technologies and Integrated Care have also resulted in improved patient outcomes and hospital services.
*Statistics sourced from the June 2021 Australian Census.
Our Purpose: Work together to deliver quality health outcomes across our communities
Our Values:
Collaboration is working willingly and actively together to achieve goals and improve levels of service to NSW Health. Collaboration means seeking the input of others, both from within the Northern NSW Local Health District and from external partners, while always considering the impact on our teams.
Openness is a state of mind, enabling colleagues to share ideas and communicate clearly. We strive to be approachable, actively listen and encourage others to contribute and speak up. We offer and receive constructive feedback. This ensures others feel their contribution is valued, even when there are disagreements.
Respect is a reminder to treat others as we would like to be treated ourselves. It is important to be mindful of each other’s capabilities, regardless of role or grade. We care about the different perspectives and backgrounds in our workplace and are thoughtful of our impact on others.
Empowerment enables a sense of purpose in our work. It is achieved through taking responsibility for our performance and behaviour. We celebrate our achievements. We also reflect upon things which may not have met expectations and learn from that experience. In doing so, we create a positive environment in which people are encouraged to grow, develop and succeed.
Richard Seamark, Clinical Director of Richmond Clarence Mental Health Service, on working in Northern NSW LHD.
Role Specification
The Executive Director Medical Services and Clinical Governance has primary responsibility for strategic and professional leadership of the clinical governance and medical services portfolio across the Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD). Working with clinical staff, executives and managers to strengthen clinician involvement in decision-making, strategic service delivery and clinical practice improvement.
The Executive Director Medical Services and Clinical Governance plays a key leadership role in the integration of patient care, clinical governance and innovation across the organisation to ensure safe and quality health services.
As a member of the NNSWLHD Executive Team, the Executive Director Medical Services and Clinical Governance will work collaboratively with other members of the Executive to lead, monitor, evaluate and improve patient care and service delivery, to achieve the strategic and operational objectives of the NNSWLHD.
- Provide strategic and operational advice to the Chief Executive, Executive and the board related to the functional areas of accountability including clinical and professional standards, evidence-based practice, medical services, and models of care.
- Manage services and issues in a risk intelligent manner and in accordance with relevant legislation, regulations policies and procedures, meeting all internal, legislative, audit and Ministry of Health requirements; and meet all internal, Ministry of Health and public sector workforce information and reporting requirements.
- Ensure financial responsibility and accountability within the Clinical Governance and Medical Services portfolio; and develop and implement financial strategies that will ensure financial targets and key performance indicators are met.
- Lead the governance of medical services across the organisation, including structure, credentialing and scope of practice, and development of policies and procedures to ensure that state-wide medical strategies, standards and practices are implemented effectively.
- Provide professional leadership and support to the Directors of Medical Services and medical staff encouraging engagement, providing peer leadership and encouraging collaboration and professional development across the organisation.
- Provide high level expert advice on all medical workforce matters, including workforce professional development and professional competency, medical workforce planning and strategy to meet the service needs of the district.
- Lead the design and implementation of medical services governance and structures across the organisation, including clinician engagement and linkages between clinical councils, medical staff councils and other appropriate bodies.
- Provide strategic leadership of all clinical governance matters, including leading patient safety and clinical excellence through the implementation of clinical quality and safety programs across the district, fostering a culture of continuing improvement for patient safety and clinical quality to provide safe and optimal care for our patients.
- Work closely with Executive to ensure that contemporary, benchmarked state, national international 'best practice' standards are applied to all aspects of a patient journey across the district.
- Provide direction and expertise on the organisation's clinical governance function, including quality and safety, accreditation, and patient safety programs. Leading the organisations effective implementation of the national health standards through the Australian Council of Healthcare Standards.
- Oversee the NSW Health Incident Information and Management System (IIMS) within the district and lead the investigation of specific clinical complaints as required. Overseeing the reporting and complaints handling systems and investigate concerns/complaints regarding clinicians, working with line managers to facilitate fair and speedy resolutions.
- Work collaboratively with and support clinical staff of the LHD to ensure rigorous review and audit of patient outcomes with effective uptake of safety initiatives.
- Lead, direct and oversee the initiatives, activities and performance of district disaster management function.
Professional Behaviour and Communication
All employees are required to achieve, uphold and model a high standard of professional behaviour and communication.
- Any conduct on your part, whether during or outside business hours, which has the capacity to affect or damage the professional reputation of NSW Health, or your ability to uphold that reputation or image, could lead to disciplinary action, including dismissal.
- Appropriate professional behaviour incorporates all levels of interpersonal behaviour, including formal and informal communication with colleagues, patients and carers.
All employees are responsible for:
- Complying with all current NSW Health and NNSWLHD policies, including the NSW Health Code of Conduct.
- Complying with profession-specific Code of Ethics/Code of Professional Conduct and Scope of Practice.
Workplace Culture
Your workplace behaviours and practices are expected to:
- Proactively contribute to a positive, productive and safe workplace culture.
- Adhere to the CORE values of Collaboration, Openness, Respect and Empowerment identified in the NSW Health Workplace Culture Framework.
Privacy
All employees are expected to comply with personal information protection principles and health privacy principles as per the NSW Health Privacy Manual for Health Information, NSW Health and NNSWLHD privacy policies and procedures, and relevant legislation:
- Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 (NSW)
- Health Records and Information Privacy Act 2002 (NSW)
Performance
All employees will:
- Have a performance agreement with their manager, linking individual performance objectives and role requirements to corporate objectives.
- Participate in an annual performance appraisal.
- Be responsible, with the support of their managers, for proactively developing their own performance to meet expectations and achieve objectives.
- Actively contribute to their performance management by having open and honest conversations with managers and colleagues and providing and receiving constructive feedback.
Quality Improvement
NNSWLHD complies with the National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards. All employees are expected to:
- Be aware of and comply with their responsibilities under the Standards.
- Actively participate in quality improvement initiatives within their teams.
- Participate in organisation-wide quality improvement activities as required.
Workplace Health & Safety
All employees have responsibilities under the Workplace Health & Safety Act of 2011. Signing the Position Description will confirm you understand the responsibilities relevant to your role.
Risk Management
All employees are expected to notify into the incident management system any incidents and patient complaints which occur in your own area (both clinical and corporate incidents).
All employees will:
- Identify and manage risks in your own area, and report risks to your manager which are beyond your capacity or authority to manage.
Responsibilities under WHS - Supervisor
As a leader you are expected to support the organisation achieve the aims of the safety management system, to establish and maintain a positive health and safety culture in the workplace and to consult with workers and others when making decisions that may impact upon the health, safety and welfare of those in the workplace.
- 1.Eligible for registration with the Medical Board of Australia as a Specialist Medical Administrator, and/or overseas trained specialist pathways, or working toward such eligibility, or relevant qualifications and experience as a medical practitioner.
- 2.Extensive clinical and operational management experience including clinical governance, risk management and service improvement within a complex health care environment.
- 3.Demonstrated medical administration experience and comprehensive knowledge of and experience in managing current issues in medical workforce.
- 4.Ability to lead and influence change at scale whilst driving measurable outcomes for clinical care delivery.
- 5.Highly developed expertise in strategically managing services and budgets including financial, physical and human resources, in a large complex health service.
- 6.Expert communication skills with proven negotiation skills and emotional intelligence.
- 7.Demonstrated ability and experience leading redesign, clinical strategies planning and clinical leadership for the provision of programs and services consistent with the responsibilities of the position.
- 8.Valid unrestricted drivers’ licence for use in NSW/Australia and willingness to travel in the course of employment.
The total remuneration package range is inclusive of:
- Base salary: $354,479
- Super: 11.5% paid on salary
- Allowances: Managerial allowance
Additional benefits:
- 5 weeks paid annual leave and 17.5% leave loading.
- 25 calendar days for Training Education and Study Leave.
Further information: NSW Staff Specialists (State) Award 2022
- Leading and managing the change agenda across a large clinical leadership, clinical management and clinical service delivery workforce.
- Engaging and enhancing clinician leadership and involvement in NNSWLHD decision making and development of medical workforce culture.
- Driving ongoing improvements in clinical quality and safety performance.
- Eligible for registration with the Medical Board of Australia as a Specialist Medical Administrator, and/or overseas trained specialist pathways, or working towards such eligibility, or relevant qualifications and experience as a medical practitioner.
- Valid unrestricted drivers’ licence for use in NSW/Australia.
- Valid NSW Employee Working With Children Check.
Role Description
The closing date for applications is Friday, 1 November 2024
The reference number to include in your application is H24_4901
Note: Please use the online platform to submit your application. It will not be accepted via email.
If you require assistance in submitting your application online, please get in touch with Executive Search Coordinator, Bradie Hammat: M: +61 (0)417 882 900 / E: [email protected]
Your application must include:
- 1.Cover letter addressed to the Principal Consultant;
- 2.A written response addressing the key selection criteria; and
- 3.An up to date copy of your Curriculum Vitae.
It Is standard practice for HardyGroup to acknowledge receipt of your application no later than the next business day. We request that if you do not receive the acknowledgement, you contact the search coordinator listed above as soon as possible after the 24-hour business period and arrange to resend your application if necessary.
For a confidential discussion, please contact:
Rhodie Miller
HardyGroup Principal Consultant
m. +61 (0)422 816 557
e. [email protected]
LIVING AND WORKING IN
NORTHERN NSW
Northern New South Wales offers a lifestyle that combines natural beauty, vibrant communities, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Northern New South Wales offers a lifestyle that combines natural beauty, vibrant communities, and a laid-back atmosphere. With a subtropical climate, the region enjoys warm summers and mild winters, making outdoor activities a year-round possibility. Some of Australia’s most renowned surfing beaches, such as Byron Bay, Ballina, and Kingscliff, line the coast, attracting surf enthusiasts from across the globe. The local beaches not only boast incredible waves but also spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. Beyond surfing, the area’s creative pulse is palpable, with flourishing arts communities that support painters, woodworkers, ceramists, and musicians. Places like Lismore and Byron Bay host annual festivals celebrating everything from film to music and visual arts, ensuring a rich cultural experience.
The North Wall, Ballina, is a great spot for spotting dolphins
Further north, Tweed Heads offers a blend of coastal and riverside living, with easy access to pristine beaches and the picturesque Tweed River, perfect for fishing, boating, and water sports. Nearby, Murwillumbah, with its stunning views of Mt Warning (Wollumbin) and the surrounding World Heritage-listed rainforests, has a thriving arts community and regularly hosts cultural events like the Tweed Valley Banana Festival.
The beautiful Black Cockatoo
Richmond Valley, including towns like Casino and Evans Head, blends rich agricultural land with coastal beauty, offering a diverse range of experiences from country markets to quiet beach escapes. Lennox Head, renowned for its stunning surf breaks and relaxed village atmosphere, is a favourite for surfers and families alike, with Lake Ainsworth providing a peaceful retreat for kayaking and picnics.
Cows on farmland in Kyogle
Whether it's hiking through rainforests, whale watching along the coast, or immersing yourself in the vibrant arts scene, Northern NSW offers an unparalleled lifestyle. The region's blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and strong community spirit makes it a truly special place to live and explore.
Nobby's Creek in the Tweed Valley
Each town within Northern NSW has its own unique character. Grafton, known as the Jacaranda City, transforms into a purple wonderland during its annual Jacaranda Festival. Maclean, the Scottish Town of Australia, keeps its heritage alive with events like the Highland Gathering, which has been running for over a century. Casino, celebrated as the Beef Capital of Australia, is a haven for food lovers, with the region producing some of the best beef in the country. Weekend farmers markets are a staple, offering fresh, locally grown produce from avocados and macadamias to artisan cheeses and organic meats.
Mt Wollumbin (Warning) from The pinnacle Lookout, Border Ranges National Park, NSW.
Kyogle, located on the edge of the Border Ranges, is known for its natural beauty and close-knit rural community. Surrounded by rainforests and waterfalls, it offers excellent opportunities for bushwalking and wildlife watching. In the Upper Clarence region, charming villages like Bonalbo are gateways to rugged outdoor adventures, with scenic drives and campgrounds that make the most of the area's unspoiled environment.
Wategos Beach with Byron Bay Lighthouse in background
Mullumbimby, nestled in the Byron hinterland, is a hub for alternative lifestyles and creativity. With a strong sense of community and a weekly farmers market that showcases the best local produce, it attracts those seeking a laid-back, sustainable lifestyle. The surrounding hills are dotted with organic farms, wellness retreats, and art studios, making it a unique destination within the region.
ABOUT US
HardyGroup’s (HG) mission is simple
Find and Grow Great Leaders - and we have been doing exactly that for more than 30 years in public and private health, primary, community and aged care as well as the broader public service.
Our synergistic business model of Executive Search and Recruitment integrated with Executive Leadership and Learning is our unique point of difference.
It ensures our clients can count on us for the lifecycle of their organisations leadership journey and why we are regarded as the leading trans-Tasman partner agency by clients.
When engaging HG you can be confident in a deeply personalised experience and service as nothing matters more to us than relationships and results.