University Hospital Kerry is seeking an experienced and strategic Operational Director to lead and enhance patient and client care services across the hospital. This senior leadership role offers a unique opportunity to influence healthcare delivery, improve operational performance, and drive meaningful outcomes within a busy acute hospital environment in Kerry.
Job Overview
The Operational Director will play a critical leadership role within University Hospital Kerry, overseeing service delivery, operational efficiency, and patient care standards. This position is ideal for a highly skilled healthcare leader with a strong background in managing complex healthcare systems and delivering strategic improvements.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage operational functions to ensure high-quality patient care delivery
- Drive service improvement initiatives aligned with national healthcare priorities
- Oversee performance management, resource allocation, and service planning
- Collaborate with clinical and administrative teams to optimise hospital operations
- Ensure compliance with healthcare regulations, policies, and governance frameworks
- Support workforce planning, staff development, and leadership across departments
- Monitor and report on key performance indicators and operational targets
Required Skills & Qualifications
- Extensive experience in healthcare management or senior leadership roles
- Strong understanding of hospital operations and patient care systems
- Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams in a complex environment
- Excellent strategic planning, organisational, and decision-making skills
- Strong communication and stakeholder engagement abilities
- Relevant third-level qualification in healthcare management or related field
- Experience within the Irish health system is highly desirable
Salary, Benefits & Working Hours
This is a Permanent Wholetime position offering competitive pay in line with the Community Healthcare Network Manager Grade 6011 scale. Benefits include public sector pension, annual leave entitlements, and access to ongoing professional development within the health service.
Location & Employer Information
Based in University Hospital Kerry, this role operates within a dynamic acute hospital setting serving the Kerry region. The hospital plays a vital role in delivering essential healthcare services to the community, making this position central to shaping patient outcomes and service excellence across the region.
Application Details
This opportunity is open to both HSE and non-HSE applicants. Candidates are strongly advised to download and review the Job Specification, Applicant Information Document, and Digital Application Form before applying.
Apply online: https://www.rezoomo.com/job/97167/
For informal enquiries, please contact:
Ms Mary Fitzgerald
Hospital Manager, University Hospital Kerry
Email: UHK.GeneralManager@hse.ie
Tel: 066 7184163
For technical issues with your application, contact: shauna.broderick@hse.ie
Last Day to Apply: 19 May 2026 at 12:00 PM
