Being a public health director is like riding a rollercoaster. There are thrilling highs, but also some really tough lows. Leadership can be difficult, and some days it feels like everything is falling apart. But there are also moments of pure reward that make it all worth it.
In my career, I've worked in places as diverse as Norway, Wales, England, and Jersey. I've served in the civil service, the NHS, and local government. Each place and role has taught me something new about leadership. The challenges and successes in each context have shaped the way I perceive and try to practise leadership today.
Taking on roles beyond my training, like becoming the Chief Information Officer for Public Health England, has broadened my understanding of leadership because I couldn’t rely on my personal technical knowledge. I had to trust others and bring together sometimes opposing views.
There are days when the weight of responsibility feels crushing. Being vulnerable as a leader means admitting that you don't have all the answers and that some days you just want to leave. It can be very hard to carry on when things are difficult or unclear, and it feels like everyone is looking to you to sort it out. But it's in those moments of doubt that I've grown the most, learning to rely on my team and stay focused on our goals.
Then, there are the days when everything clicks. Like the time we launched a new service that was desperately needed, or when we stopped a potential health crisis before it escalated. Those are the days that remind me why I do this job. Knowing that I've treated people fairly and been able to have a positive impact on the lives of individuals and communities is incredibly fulfilling.
My motivation has always been clear: I love sorting out messes and getting things done well. There is also an element of wanting some kind of fairness for people, which is a strong motivation for me. Leadership isn't just about making decisions; it's about understanding the people you serve, learning from the experiences you have, and understanding what motivates you to do it. Each challenge, every rough day, and all the successes contribute to the repertoire you build as a leader, and you never stop learning.
Leadership in public health is tough, but the chance to make a real difference keeps me going. I’ve learned that true leadership is about staying committed, being open to learning, and always striving to do the best you can for the community.