Cluster Chief Executive/Accountable Officer

Description

NHS Devon & NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly – South West Peninsula ICB Cluster

We are seeking an exceptional, seasoned NHS Chief Executive/Accountable Officer to lead the Devon, Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Cluster at a pivotal moment. Our two ICBs now operate with a single Cluster Board and shared leadership model ahead of a planned merger in 2026/27, chaired by John Govett, appointed in September 2025 to provide strong, stable leadership.

This critical role will deliver system performance and financial sustainability, complete the redesign of our operating model, and shape the future clinical and commissioning strategy for our population. The Cluster arrangement supports national reforms requiring ICBs to transition to a strategic role with shared leadership and reduced running costs.

The opportunity to be leading in commissioning arrangements including IHOs and reconfiguration of clinical services will be key to the change management skills of the successful individual

We are looking for:

• A highly experienced NHS CEO/AO
• Strong system‑wide change management leadership experience.
• Deep commissioning and contracting expertise.
• A skilled system convenor and communicator able to lead confidently through uncertainty.
• Insight into the strategic shifts shaping the NHS: Acute→Community, Illness→Prevention, Analogue→Digital.

What you will lead:

• Being accountable to the ICB Chair and Board, with performance oversight by NHS England, for delivering all statutory, strategic and financial responsibilities of the ICB. This includes establishing and leading strategic commissioning arrangements for NHS‑funded services, driving the transformation to the Model ICB and delivering agreed cost‑reduction plans across the NHS cluster system.
• Leadership of the whole NHS system of the 2026/27 system plan and 3 year strategic priorities
• Delivery of system performance, quality and financial outcomes across the Cluster.
• Exploration of future integration options, including IHOs and service re-configuration and likely merger of ICBs.
• Reworking of the 2026/27 system plan and development of the future service offer.
• Completion of the ICB restructuring to achieve the £19 per capita envelope.
• Development of the new Cluster Executive Teams

Working in the South West Peninsula

The role is based across Devon and Cornwall, a region defined by strong communities, a high‑quality environment, and a balanced pace of life. Cornwall offers a distinctive cultural identity and coastal landscape, while Devon is recognised for its quality of life, natural environment and accessible urban centres.

These features contribute to an exciting, innovative and supportive setting for senior leadership roles while remaining focused on system delivery.

For a discussion in confidence, please contact our retained recruitment partners at GatenbySanderson:

Helen Barkham, Principal Researcher

E: helen.barkham@gatenbysanderson.com

T: +44 (0) 7921 308 766

Julia St Clare, Senior Consultant and Research Lead

E: julia.stclare@gatenbysanderson.com 

T: +44 (0) 7807 631 564

Melanie Shearer, Partner

E: melanie.shearer@gatenbysanderson.com

T: +44 (0) 7785 616 548

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