I originally started my career in healthcare communications after graduating, but there just weren’t any prospects there for me. I really missed working in healthcare but I still had high ambitions. The NHS offered me the altruistic approach I was looking for, plus the chance to build a successful career.
Working here is unlike anything I ever expected. I’ve met many talented, highly capable colleagues who have inspired and guided me and I’ve worked on projects that will make a real difference to staff and patients. Being based in the area I was born and raised in – with professionals that have treated and will continue to treat me – gives the job an amazing sense of reality and impact.
In my first role I worked on a programme to improve integration across care organisations, implementing a national framework for common assessments in health and social care and facilitating the sharing of information. A big part of the job was developing relationships with commissioners and providers, using technical and governance knowledge to make recommendations as well as carrying out project and change management work.
Life is pretty varied, but a normal day might involve checking my emails, writing a business case or creating a savings dashboard for the Director of Finance. I also spend a lot of time in meetings and travelling.
The training and development has been exceptional. I’ve had a great support network and the chance to work on big, topical projects and study at one of the best universities in the world. My biggest achievements so far have been getting a mark of merit for my first MSc year and gaining a PRINCE2 Practitioner qualification.
In the future I want to take a step closer to patients and maximise my exposure to and passion for the front line. I’ll continue to build on my knowledge to progress as far as I can.
If you’re committed, resilient and focused, the NHS can offer you a rewarding, fulfilling and varied career that makes a difference to everyone.