Oonagh Monkhouse joins NHS Employers as director of pay, reward and employment relations

An executive director who has been leading on workforce and organisational development at one of the UK’s leading heart and lung hospitals has joined NHS Employers as director of pay, reward and employment relations.

Oonagh Monkhouse, formerly director of workforce and organisational development at the Royal Papworth Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, brings extensive experience from across the NHS. She joined the trust in October 2017, having previously held the same role at Bedford Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.

She will be leading national NHS employer policy on employment relations, pay, reward and contractual frameworks in line with DHSC mandates. Oonagh will also provide high‑quality policy, analysis and support for national negotiating bodies, including Agenda for Change, medical contracts and the NHS Pension Scheme.

Alongside her role at the Royal Papworth, Oonagh has for several years served as co‑chair of the National Agenda for Change Staff Council, working closely with trade union colleagues on national pay, terms and conditions.

Originally from Northern Ireland, Oonagh began her NHS career in Belfast before moving to Cambridge in 1993, building a strong track record in workforce, reward and staff experience.

Dean Royles, Interim Chief Executive 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.”

Oonagh Monkhouse, director of pay and reward at NHS Employers, 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.

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