Description

This role is office-based; however, it also offers some agile or remote working

Are you an experienced public health professional with a passion for improving population health and tackling inequalities?

We have an exciting opportunity to join our ambitious and expanding Public Health team as a Public Health Principal.

Following the re-establishment of our independent Isle of Wight Public Health Team, we are continuing to build a dynamic, forward-thinking service focused on improving health and wellbeing for our Island community. This is an excellent time to join us as we develop innovative programmes and strengthen our impact for residents.

About the Role

As a Public Health Principal, you will lead the strategic development, commissioning, delivery and performance of key programmes, initially focusing on sexual health, healthy weight and healthcare public health.

You will play a critical leadership role in improving outcomes and reducing inequalities, working across systems to ensure services are evidence-based, effective and responsive to local need. Acting as a senior specialist, you will provide expert advice to commissioners, senior leaders and partners, supporting a coordinated approach to programme development and delivery.

Working with system partners including NHS organisations, the voluntary and community sector, and regional colleagues you will help shape and influence strategies to improve population health at scale.

You will report directly to the Associate Director of Public Health within the Healthy Lives team.

Relocation scheme of up to £8,000 may be available for some roles (subject to criteria)

Requirements

You will:

Lead the strategic development, commissioning and performance management of public health programmes
Provide specialist advice to inform decision-making, including interpreting complex evidence, data and policy
Lead needs assessments, health equity audits and research to inform planning and commissioning
Translate national policy into effective local strategies and delivery plans
Manage budgets and commissioned services to ensure value and outcomes
Lead and support staff and programmes, promoting high performance and continuous improvement
Build strong partnerships across the council, NHS and wider system
Ensure services are informed by need, co-production and evidence, with a focus on reducing inequalities
Contribute to the wider public health system, including health protection and emergency response
 

About You

You are an experienced public health professional with a strong commitment to improving health and reducing inequalities. You will bring experience of co-producing programmes with communities, commissioning services, and working with NHS partners on healthcare public health.

Why the Isle of Wight?

The Isle of Wight offers a unique public health environment, with distinct challenges and opportunities. This enables genuinely place-based approaches that make a real difference, particularly in addressing inequalities and improving outcomes across the life course.

We are a supportive and evolving team with a strong focus on learning, development and collaboration. You will join at a time of real opportunity to shape our approach, influence priorities and grow your career.

Working with Us

We offer a flexible, supportive and developmental working environment where people are encouraged to learn, innovate and progress.

You will benefit from:

Agile and hybrid working
Training, development and career progression opportunities
Being part of a growing team with scope to shape its future
A collaborative culture focused on continuous learning
32 days annual leave plus public holidays
 

Why Join Us?

This is an opportunity to be part of a developing service with real impact. As our Public Health function grows, you will be supported to expand your skills, take on new challenges and progress your career.

Find Out More

If you are motivated by making a difference and ready to lead impactful public health programmes, we would love to hear from you.

For an informal discussion, please contact Lucy O’Loughlin at [email protected]

Closing date 5 July 2026

Planned date for interview: Wednesday July 15th, 2026

Join #TeamIWC and you'll receive our staff benefits package, including:

Annual leave entitlement of 32 days p/a PLUS public holidays!
Local Government pension scheme
Discounted Solent ferry travel
Island bus network discount
Cycle to work scheme
Staff parking permit scheme
Discounted island sports & leisure gym membership
National and local discounts & benefits schemes
Relocation scheme of up to £8,000 may be available for some roles (subject to criteria)