We are currently recruiting for an exciting position within our organisation as Head of Governance, Risk and Compliance. Your role will be to lead the governance function supporting regulatory compliance, risk and governance activities across the organisation working closely with department leads and members of the Hospital Executive. You will support and lead the governance team in delivering an efficient and responsive service that supports the wider business objectives and the delivery of high quality and safe services to our patients.
This is a permanent, full-time position and will be based on site at Benenden Hospital.
Why Join Us
-
You’ll play a pivotal role in shaping governance and compliance standards that ensure exceptional patient care and organisational success. We offer a supportive environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a real impact.
What are we are looking for (please demonstrate in your application)
- Significant senior experience in clinical governance and compliance.
- Strong understanding of statutory requirements and regulatory frameworks.
- Proven ability to lead and develop high-performing teams.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills with internal and external stakeholders.
About us
At Benenden Hospital we put patients at the heart of everything we do. We attract kind, compassionate, and talented people to our ultra-modern private hospital, which opened in 1907 and has been rated as Outstanding by the CQC. We hold JAG accreditation for Endoscopy and have a beautiful setting in the middle of the Kent countryside.
Benenden Hospital offers excellent working conditions and facilities. We promote flexible working and a healthy work/life balance. We are committed to professional development and have excellent training and education facilities. We work hard to make sure that everyone at Benenden Hospital feels involved and shares our values and vision for the future.
About the role
As Head of Governance, Risk & Compliance, you will:
- Provide strategic leadership for governance, compliance, and risk functions.
- Lead and develop the Clinical Governance team to ensure patient safety and clinical effectiveness.
- Oversee risk and incident management, regulatory reporting, and compliance frameworks.
- Act as a visible leader, promoting an open and inclusive culture.
- Deliver accurate reporting and assurance programmes to meet stakeholder needs.
- Drive quality improvement initiatives and ensure compliance with legislation and best practice.
Skills and experience required
- Qualified to degree level or equivalent
- Strong senior experience in risk, clinical governance and compliance with ability to work within statutory requirements and frameworks.
- Resilient and shows persistence in pursuing goals despite obstacles and setbacks, maintaining personal effectiveness, understanding the impact and implications of decisions on the department, keeps abreast of developments and trends relevant to role.
- Experienced in leading a team of autonomous roles, to move forward toward the completion of goals, recognising and actively promoting team development and success.
- Experienced at building effective relationships with key stakeholders, internal and external customers.
Benefits include
- Competitive salaries
- 27 days Annual Leave plus Bank Holidays
- Defined contribution pension scheme with employer contribution up to 10%
- Membership to Benenden Health which offers a wide range of benefits, discounts and activities
- Excellent Life Assurance benefit
- Free parking
- Subsidised eye tests
- Free Flu vaccinations
- Subsidised on site Restaurant
“I love working at Benenden Hospital, it’s a beautiful location in the countryside”, “the whole organisation is supportive”, “it’s the team, the team are amazing”, “Benenden is a bit like a family”, “the whole atmosphere is brilliant”
These are just some of the reasons why more than 400 people work at Benenden Hospital which has a long history of caring since it was founded in 1907.
How to apply
You’ll be part of a forward-thinking team that’s committed to improving healthcare services and outcomes. If you’re ready to make a difference and grow with us, we’d love to hear from you.
If you wish to apply for this position, please complete and submit our application form with your CV attached.
If you have any questions or face any difficulties, then please email kentcareers@benenden.org.uk
Closing Date: 12th January 2026
Please note this vacancy may close prior to the closing date without notice, If a sufficient number of applications are received
Claire Mansfield – Resourcing Officer will then be in touch to discuss further.
Together, we work hard to maintain a safe, comfortable, patient-focused environment for the people in our care.
All our vacancies are therefore subject to either a Standard or an Enhanced Disclosure Application to the Disclosure and Barring Service as well as satisfactory reference checks. These procedures need to be completed before all new member of staff can join the hospital.
Full right to work in the UK is required as we do not offer sponsorship as an organisation
In accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), we have implemented a Privacy Notice to inform you, as prospective employees of Benenden Hospital Trust, of the types of data we process about you. Please visit our Careers page to read our Privacy Notice