Failsafe Manager

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Management

• Lead and support the Failsafe Team, providing training, guidance and performance management.
• Allocate and oversee daily Failsafe tasks, ensuring all interventions are accurately documented.
• Ensure all work follows HI policies, SOPs and national guidance.

Failsafe Operations

• Oversee all Failsafe checks and activities across the DESPs.
• Maintain accurate system updates, data entry and exception reporting within strict timescales.
• Ensure same‑day referral processes are in place for patients who require onward care.
• Manage patient queries, CVI reviews and Laser Book analysis.
• Work with Clinical Leads and Programme, Booking and Engagement Managers as required.

Pathway Oversight & Stakeholder Liaison

• Ensure the Single Collated List (SCL) is validated regularly, including military, prison and secure site lists.
• Liaise with Acute Trust Ophthalmology teams to ensure timely feedback and safe pathway progression.
• Monitor Screening to Treatment Timelines (STTT) and HES care status for all relevant patients.
• Support coordination of patient appointments with Acute Trusts, escalating issues where needed.

Audit, Data Quality & Reporting

• Review the full patient pathway quarterly and audit Failsafe systems to identify improvements.
• Perform data quality checks with Bookings, Engagement and Programme Teams.
• Audit exclusions, postponements and patients unable to be screened digitally.
• Analyse CQRS data to highlight SCL discrepancies and support corrective actions.
• Produce reports for programme boards, serious incidents and internal performance monitoring.
• Track and report serious incidents and near misses, escalating concerns appropriately.
  

Experience & Skills Required

• Experience managing or working at a senior level within DESP or another national screening programme.
• Strong knowledge of NDESP policies, NSC guidance, NICE and NSF.
• Evidence of ongoing professional development.
• A‑Level education (or equivalent) with GCSE Maths and English.
• Leadership/management qualification or 5+ years’ equivalent experience.
• Proven ability to lead teams, manage performance and coach staff.
• Strong understanding of equality, diversity, and inclusive leadership.