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Job description

The Public Health Agency (hereafter referred to as the PHA) is currently undertaking a ‘Reshape & Refresh’ programme of work which includes the design and implementation of a new Operating Model for the Agency to ensure it remains in prime condition to respond to the changing needs of the population. There are 5 key design principles which include being People Centred with a Collaborative Culture ensuring that all decisions are evidenced based and our work has an outcomes-based accountability approach. In this context there may be marginal impacts on this Job Description which might include change to aspects such as reporting arrangements or alignment of some duties / responsibilities over the next 12-18 months as the new Operating Model takes effect and posts are aligned to the new structure. High profile incidents worldwide continue to highlight the importance of an effective service response in the event of a major emergency. This will provide the successful candidate with invaluable experience of Emergency Planning Resilience and Response (EPRR) across Health and Social Care in Northern Ireland. The post holder will play a key role in the delivery of the Public Health Agency (PHA) Health Protection Service. S/he shall be expected to deliver across a range of emergency planning activities including service planning, development and implementation of policies, protocols, procedures and guidelines for emergency planning. The post holder shall work as part of a multidisciplinary team comprising of the Deputy Director for Public Health (Health Protection), Consultants in Health Protection, the Surveillance Team, Senior Infection Prevention Control Nurse, Health Protection Nurses and administration staff to provide a comprehensive health protection service in Northern Ireland. S/he shall work collaboratively with the wider Public Health teams, the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG), Business Services Organisation (BSO), HSC Trusts and external key stakeholders. The individual will also aid the PHA Senior Emergency Planning Manager and deputise for the PHA Emergency Planning and Business Continuity Manager when required.

Responsibilities

• To support the PHA Senior Emergency Planning Manager in the development of emergency preparedness plans, including the development and delivery of a training and exercise programme for the PHA, engaging relevant partner organisations.
• Review and update the PHA/SPPG/BSO Joint Response Emergency Plan and associated plans as required.
• Co-ordinate the Department of Health (Emergency Planning Branch) annual reporting process working with the SPPG and BSO colleagues.
• Responsible for completing the PHA; SPPG; BSO Emergency Preparedness Annual Report.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• Registered on NMC live Register and degree in Health and or management related degree.
• Or: Educated to degree level or equivalent, with additional training and practical experience in emergency preparedness resilience and response (i.e. equivalent to a post-graduate qualification in Emergency Planning or Public Health.)
• AND: At least 3 years’ experience in a middle management role in a multi-disciplinary environment with experience of interagency/partnership working with responsibility for emergency preparedness resilience and response.
• Knowledge of the principles of Emergency Preparedness Resilience and Response.
• Evidence of project management skills and experience in managing a complex programme of work successfully delivering successful outcomes.
• Experience of leading change, working with a range of multi professional groups within a complex organisation.
• Worked with a diverse range of stakeholders both internally and externally to the organisation to achieve successful outcomes.
• Evidence of analytical skills.
• Hold a current full driving licence which is valid for use in the UK and have access to a car on appointment.
• This criteria will be waived in the case of applicants whose disability prohibits driving but who have access to a form of transport approved by The Organisation which will permit them to carry out the duties of the post.

Desirable Skills

• Attended accredited Emergency Planning course and certified competent in that role.
• Project management- Prince2 Foundation/ Managing successful programmes or equivalent specialist qualification/ experience.

Further Information

Location: PHA HQ Belfast