Job Overview
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust is excited to invite applications for a Consultant Upper GI Surgeon with an interest in Benign Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery with a specific interest in complex hiatal surgery. This permanent, full-time position is based at the Heartlands and Solihull Hospital sites and offers a competitive salary of £109,725 to £145,478 per year. The trust is pleased to offer a certificate of sponsorship to eligible international candidates.
About the Employer
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust is one of the largest teaching trusts in the UK, providing acute services to a population of more than one million people across Birmingham and the West Midlands. The trust is committed to providing high-quality healthcare services and fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. As an equal opportunities employer, we welcome applications from talented healthcare professionals from all backgrounds.
About the Role
The Upper GI Surgery department at our trust is an extremely busy centre for complex benign upper gastrointestinal surgery. We have long been a leader in day-case anti-reflux surgery and are currently expanding our provision of advanced hiatal procedures. The successful candidate will join our team of dedicated professionals and play an active role in all elements of this service.
Key Responsibilities
The postholder will be expected to work with local managers and professional colleagues in the efficient running of the service, both elective and emergency. You will participate in a busy emergency on-call rota performed in a 1:8 cycle, with paired Upper GI and Colorectal Consultant surgeons on call at all times to provide specialty cover. Your proposed timetable will include one fortnightly all-day theatre list, one to two general surgery or specialist clinics weekly, and an endoscopy list on alternate weeks.
Specialist Services
Our trust performs a large volume of complex hiatal work including anti-reflux surgery, revisional procedures, giant para-oesophageal hernias repairs, and surgery for management of achalasia. Cross-specialty working within the trust facilitates surgery for diaphragmatic reconstruction (performed jointly with thoracic surgery colleagues) and support of our nutritional service with feeding tube placements.
Facilities and Resources
The trust is dedicated to the expansion of elective services, with our Solihull site hosting a new elective theatre complex including six state-of-the-art operating theatres. We have recently expanded our surgical robotics programme to include benign upper gastrointestinal cases on one day per week. Additionally, the Heartlands Treatment Centre houses our endoscopy suite and day-case operating theatres.
Multidisciplinary Approach
The trust undertakes a monthly benign upper gastrointestinal multidisciplinary meeting well-attended by colleagues from upper gastrointestinal surgery, gastroenterology, and oesophageal physiology services. This meeting facilitates useful discussions regarding complex cases to obtain a multi-specialty perspective and guide management decisions.
Person Specification
Essential Qualifications
Applicants must hold FRCS (Gen) or equivalent qualifications and be registered on the GMC specialist register. These qualifications demonstrate your expertise in general surgery and eligibility to practice as a consultant surgeon in the UK.
Essential Experience
You will need substantial experience in upper gastrointestinal surgery, with a specific interest in benign upper GI conditions. Experience in complex hiatal surgery, anti-reflux procedures, and management of achalasia would be highly advantageous.
Professional Skills
The ideal candidate will demonstrate excellent clinical skills, surgical expertise, and the ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team. You should have strong communication skills and be committed to providing high-quality patient care.
Working Conditions
This is a permanent, full-time position working 40 hours per week. The trust offers comprehensive benefits including a generous pension scheme, access to NHS discounts, and opportunities for professional development. You will join a supportive team environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources.
Visa and Sponsorship Information
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust is pleased to offer a certificate of sponsorship to eligible international candidates. This sponsorship is available for candidates who require a Skilled Worker visa to work in the UK. The trust will support your visa application process, including providing the necessary documentation.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the UK visa requirements for healthcare professionals, including having appropriate qualifications and experience recognized by the General Medical Council (GMC). You will need to demonstrate English language proficiency at the required level.
Relocation Support
The trust is committed to supporting international staff with relocation. We can provide guidance on finding accommodation, understanding UK healthcare systems, and settling into life in Birmingham. Our dedicated HR team is available to assist with any visa or relocation queries.
Application Process
To apply for this position, please submit your application through the NHS Jobs website. Applications should include an up-to-date CV, a personal statement outlining your suitability for the role, and proof of your qualifications and GMC registration.
Application Deadline
The closing date for applications is 26 November 2025. Late applications will not be considered. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview, which may be conducted virtually for international candidates.
Interview Process
The interview process will include a clinical assessment, a presentation, and a panel interview. You will have the opportunity to meet members of the team and discuss the role in more detail. For international candidates, we can accommodate flexible interview arrangements.
Contact Information
For questions about the job, contact Mr Tom Wiggins, Clinical Service Lead for Upper GI Surgery, via email at tom.wiggins@uhb.nhs.uk or by phone at 07813542446. For general inquiries about the application process or sponsorship, please contact the HR department.
Additional Information
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of their race, gender, disability, religion, sexual orientation, or age. The trust is an equal opportunities employer and is a Disability Confident Leader.
Professional Development
The trust is committed to the continuing professional development of all staff. As a consultant surgeon, you will have access to ongoing training opportunities, conferences, and research activities. We encourage participation in audit and research to enhance service development and patient care.
Benefits Package
In addition to the competitive salary, the trust offers a comprehensive benefits package including NHS Pension Scheme, access to occupational health services, and generous annual leave. Staff also benefit from access to the NHS discount scheme and on-site parking facilities.