Business Support Manager

Business Support Manager – UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA)

Salary: £35,587 – £43,244 per annum (pro rata)

Location: Horsham, West Sussex / Ashford, Kent

Contract: Permanent

Working Pattern: Part-time, job share and flexible working

Work Arrangement: Hybrid (minimum 60% office attendance)

Closing Date: 13 November 2026

Reference Number: 919-CG-307395-EXT

Visa Sponsorship: Skilled Worker visa sponsorship is available. Applications from candidates requiring current Skilled Worker sponsorship are welcome and will be considered alongside other applications.

About the Role

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is recruiting a Business Support Manager to lead and coordinate business support functions across its Directorate.

The successful candidate will oversee the implementation and management of relevant systems and processes, identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, and support the delivery of the Directorate’s business plan and strategic priorities.

The role involves working with colleagues across different locations, including remote teams, while providing operational, financial, project management and administrative support to senior leaders.

Key Responsibilities

Business and Operational Support

• Coordinate business support functions covering finance, accommodation, human resources, governance, business continuity, risk management, staff engagement and internal communications.
• Identify opportunities to improve business processes and operational efficiency.
• Provide secretariat and management support for senior management meetings and external networks.
• Support the Director and Senior Leadership Team with diary and email management, briefings, presentations, correspondence and research.
• Deputise for colleagues when required.

Project and Programme Support

• Support corporate projects, service reviews and improvement initiatives.
• Maintain project plans and provide management information.
• Assist with project planning, statistical data and information requests.
• Participate in working groups and support project delivery when a dedicated project officer is unavailable.

Financial and Resource Management

• Support effective financial management across the Directorate.
• Monitor project expenditure and prepare financial reports.
• Ensure compliance with UKHSA financial governance requirements.
• Undertake procurement activities in line with organisational policies.
• Respond to internal and external audit requirements.

Leadership and Staff Management

• Support staff induction, training, recruitment and professional development.
• Help managers maintain professional standards and appraisal compliance.
• Provide line management where applicable, including objective setting, performance management and staff development.
• Promote accountability, teamwork and continuous improvement.

Governance and Quality Assurance

• Support the delivery of Directorate business plans.
• Contribute to business continuity planning, testing and exercises.
• Develop written guidance and standard operating procedures for administrative processes.
• Participate in governance working groups and promote quality standards.

Communication and Stakeholder Engagement

• Build effective working relationships with clinical, non-clinical, corporate, scientific, academic and external stakeholders.
• Communicate professionally through meetings, telephone calls, emails and written correspondence.
• Work with stakeholders across the NHS, Civil Service departments and the wider public.

Essential Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate the following:

• A degree or equivalent qualification in Business Management, Operations Management or a related discipline, or substantial equivalent experience leading business operations, service improvement and organisational performance initiatives.
• Experience providing secretariat support, organising meetings and events, and preparing high-quality reports and communications for senior stakeholders.
• Knowledge of budget management, business planning, business continuity, procurement and relevant financial procedures.
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to work independently, manage competing priorities and meet changing deadlines.
• Effective leadership skills, including managing team dynamics, encouraging continuous improvement and supporting shared objectives.
• Advanced IT skills, particularly Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel and PowerPoint.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, attention to detail and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• A commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion and maintaining positive working relationships.

Working Arrangements and Location

The position is offered on a hybrid working basis, with the successful candidate based at either:

• Ashford, Kent.
• Horsham, West Sussex.

Employees are expected to spend at least 60% of their contractual working hours in the office, approximately three days per week pro rata, averaged over a month.

Flexible working arrangements are available where business needs permit.

Visa Sponsorship

UKHSA welcomes applications from candidates who require current Skilled Worker visa sponsorship to work in the UK. Such applications will be considered alongside all other applications.

Applicants requiring sponsorship should review the relevant UK Skilled Worker visa requirements before applying.

Selection and Interview Process

Stage 1: Application and Shortlisting

The selection process will assess applicants against seven essential criteria.

Candidates must complete:

• The employment and activity history section of the application form.
• A supporting statement of no more than 1,000 words explaining how their skills, knowledge and experience meet the essential criteria.

CV uploads are not accepted. Applicants should provide sufficient details in the application form rather than emailing their CV.

If there is a high volume of applications, UKHSA may conduct an initial sift focusing on:

• Relevant degree-level education or equivalent experience in business operations and service improvement.
• Effective people leadership and the ability to promote continuous improvement.

Stage 2: Interview

Successful candidates will be invited to a competency-based, face-to-face interview at either Ashford, Kent, or Horsham, West Sussex.

Knowledge, experience, skills and abilities will be assessed. Remote interviews may be considered in exceptional circumstances.

Interview dates are yet to be confirmed.

Security Requirements

Successful applicants must complete a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and meet the Basic Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) requirements before appointment.

Applicants who have lived overseas for 12 months or more during the past 10 years may also need to provide criminal record certificates from the relevant countries, in line with UK requirements.

About the UK Health Security Agency

The UK Health Security Agency works to protect the health of the public through health security, disease prevention and emergency preparedness.

UKHSA is committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone matters. The organisation encourages applications from people of all backgrounds and actively promotes equality of opportunity.

How to Apply

Interested and qualified candidates should complete the online application form and submit a supporting statement of no more than 1,000 words, demonstrating how they meet the essential criteria.

Applications must be submitted before the closing date.

Closing Date: 13 November 2026

Employer: UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA)

Job Reference: 919-CG-307395-EXT

Enquiries: Charlene Gwekwerere, Resourcing Support Officer

Email: charlene.gwekwerere@ukhsa.gov.uk