NHS Employers appoints director of pay, reward and employment relations

NHS Employers has appointed Oonagh Monkhouse (pictured) as director of pay, reward and employment relations. 

Monkhouse was previously director of workforce and organisational development at Royal Papworth Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, joining in October 2017 after holding the same position at Bedford Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.

Monkhouse will lead national NHS employer policy on employment relations, pay, reward and contractual frameworks in line with Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) mandates. 

She will provide policy, analysis and support for national negotiating bodies, including agenda for change, medical contracts and the NHS pension scheme.

Monkhouse said: “I’m really excited to be joining NHS Employers and to be working in the area of employment relations and reward agenda which I have been interested in for a long time. 

“Ensuring the NHS has a modern, equitable, and sustainable approach to pay, reward and retention of its staff is essential for the long term health of the workforce and the service. 

“I look forward to working closely with leaders, health unions, and staff to develop solutions that meet the needs of today while preparing for the challenges of tomorrow.”

Monkhouse added: “Above all, I’m committed to supporting an NHS workforce that feels valued, recognised, and empowered to deliver exceptional care.”

Dean Royles, interim CEO at NHS Employers, said: “Oonagh brings a wealth of rich experience and impressed us with her credibility as a people leader who is driven by values as well as her commitment and expertise in partnership working. 

“Her appointment comes at an important time for NHS Employers which has a key role to play in delivering the government’s ambitious Ten-Year Health Plan. 

“Oonagh’s exceptional leadership and strategic thinking skills will be pivotal in leading this work and supporting the wider success of the NHS Employers service.”