Empowering the next generation of nurse leaders

The NHS is one of the most complex organisations to manage and lead. As a nurse and a senior manager in the NHS, I recognise the vital role that nurse leaders play in shaping the culture, effectiveness and resilience of our healthcare teams. Nurse leaders are pivotal in bridging the gap between frontline care delivery and higher level organisational strategy, making their leadership indispensable for improving patient care and staff wellbeing.

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) has outlined an array of leadership roles from team leader to director of nursing (RCN, 2023). These roles embody more than just managerial responsibilities; they involve acting as role models and change agents, upholding the highest standards of care and inspiring colleagues to do the same.

There is an ongoing discussion within healthcare circles about the interplay between management and leadership (Hill, 2017). Managers often focus on the immediate issues of administration and control. Leaders, however, look to inspire and innovate, aiming for long-term improvements (Samarakoon, 2019).