Working in the NHS: A guide for professional services and non-clinical professionals

From finance and legal to procurement, HR, and IT — the NHS relies on a vast network of professionals to keep its services running smoothly. At Sellick Partnership, we help skilled candidates secure rewarding roles within the NHS across these non-clinical functions.

Working for the NHS doesn't just mean being on the front line of patient care. Behind the scenes, thousands of professionals are working every day to ensure the system runs effectively - from managing complex budgets and contracts to driving digital transformation and safeguarding legal compliance. These roles are essential to the successful delivery of healthcare across the UK and offer outstanding opportunities for professional development. 

Whether you're considering a more from the private sector, looking for interim opportunities, or are ready to step into a public sector leadership role, the NHS offers a wide variety of meaningful career paths. 

What types of NHS roles are available for non-clinical professionals? 

The NHS is one of the UK’s largest employers and its operational success depends on talented individuals in a wide variety of support and leadership functions. These include:

• Finance and Accountancy: including financial planning, management accounts, and business partnering.

• Legal and Governance: from in-house legal counsel to risk and compliance professionals.

• Procurement: ensuring value for money and compliance across NHS supply chains.

• HR and Organisational Development: supporting workforce planning, employee relations, and wellbeing.

• Technology, Data, and Digital: including project management, business intelligence, and system transformation.

• Senior and Executive roles: overseeing strategy, transformation and operational delivery.

If you have experience in these areas - whether from the public or private sector - there are opportunities to make a meaningful impact in the NHS.

Why consider a professional services role in the NHS?

Transitioning to a non-clinical NHS role can be a rewarding move for professionals seeking purpose-driven work and long-term career development. Here are a few reasons to consider it:

• Make a difference: support vital public health services without being on the clinical front line.

• Join a respected employer: the NHS offers stability, progression, and nationwide opportunities.

• Enjoy strong benefits: including public sector pensions, hybrid working, and generous holiday allowances.

• Grow your skills: work on complex, large-scale projects that enhance your CV and leadership capabilities.

Do I need NHS experience to apply?

Not always. While direct NHS or wider public sector experience is advantageous, professionals with private or third-sector backgrounds are often welcomed, especially in interim or contract roles. Transferable skills such as stakeholder management, compliance, data handling, or financial acumen are highly valued.

Sellick Partnership regularly supports:

• Professionals moving from commerce or private practice.

• Candidates returning to public sector work.

• Interim and locum specialists seeking flexible assignments.

If you’re unsure how your skills align, speak to one of our Consultants for tailored advice.

How Sellick Partnership supports candidates

With deep expertise in NHS recruitment, we can help you:

• Understand the NHS hiring process.

• Navigate frameworks, compliance, and vetting.

• Tailor your CV to public sector roles.

• Explore interim, contract or permanent opportunities.

Whether you’re actively looking or just considering a future move, our experienced Consultants can guide you every step of the way.

Register your CV, or get in touch with one of our NHS recruitment experts to discuss your goals.

Next steps: ready to make an impact?

Whether you’re a finance leader, procurement analyst, HR advisor, IT specialist, or governance expert, there’s a place for you in the NHS.

Take the first step towards a more meaningful career by:

• Exploring our latest jobs

• Registering for job alerts tailored to your skills

• Speaking to a Consultant for personalised guidance

Let’s help you secure your next opportunity - and make a difference where it really counts.