KRISTEN CAVE
Hythe
Summary
Commercially driven senior leader with over 20 years’ experience leading large-scale contract portfolios within complex, regulated public sector environments. Proven track record of delivering commercial value through strategic negotiation, contract performance optimisation, and robust governance. Currently operating at Deputy Director level within the NHS, with accountability for multi-billion-pound contract portfolios including both private and public sector and extensive experience negotiating high-value contractual agreements (£2bn+). Advisor to Boards and Executive teams, known for translating complex contractual and financial data into clear, actionable strategies. Combines strategic leadership with hands-on delivery, bringing a proactive, solutions-focused approach to driving performance, managing risk, building strong, collaborative relationships and unlocking opportunity.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Deputy Director of Contracting & Contract Finance
NHS Kent & Medway Integrated Care Board
05.2024 - Current
- Lead a multi-billion-pound annual contract portfolio spanning multiple healthcare sectors
- Act as senior commercial lead advising Executives and Boards
- Lead high-value negotiations (£2bn+)
- Drive contract performance improvement through KPI frameworks
- Deliver commercial opportunities including change control and efficiencies
- Oversee risk management and dispute resolution
- Build senior stakeholder relationships across partner organisations
- Lead and develop multidisciplinary teams
Associate Director of Contracting
NHS Kent & Medway Integrated Care Board
03.2021 - 05.2024
- Led end-to-end management of complex contract portfolios
- Developed commercial strategies aligned to system priorities
- Strengthened governance and KPI monitoring
- Supported pricing models and contract structures
- Led negotiations and dispute resolution
Head of Contracts
UnitedHealth Group
02.2018 - 03.2021
- Managed high-value contracts across public and private sectors
- Led strategic negotiations and supplier engagement
- Implemented performance and governance frameworks
Head of Contracts
South East CSU
11.2014 - 02.2018
- Led contracting services for multiple NHS commissioners
- Managed SLA negotiation and contract assurance
- Developed strong stakeholder relationships
Education
CIMA Chartered Accountant -
01-2013
BA (Hons) - Business Management & Associated IT
University of Worcester
Skills
- Commercial Contract Leadership (Public Sector / Complex Environments)
Contract portfolio management
- Strategic Negotiation & Influencing (Executive Level)
- Contract Performance, KPI Frameworks & Governance
- Strong understanding of the NHS contracting and payment frameworks and processes
- Commercial Risk Management & Dispute Resolution
- Financial Strategy & Value Optimisation
- Stakeholder Engagement (Board, CEO, System Partners)
- Leadership of Multi-Disciplinary Teams
Additional information
Extensive experience in regulated environments, Strong track record leading through complexity and change, Eligible to work in the UK
Timeline
Deputy Director of Contracting & Contract Finance
NHS Kent & Medway Integrated Care Board
05.2024 - Current
Associate Director of Contracting
NHS Kent & Medway Integrated Care Board
03.2021 - 05.2024
Head of Contracts
UnitedHealth Group
02.2018 - 03.2021
Head of Contracts
South East CSU
11.2014 - 02.2018
CIMA Chartered Accountant -
BA (Hons) - Business Management & Associated IT
University of Worcester