Staff to be fast-tracked into top jobs

NHS LONDON plans to groom the capital's most talented nurse leaders to become the health service chief executives of the future.

NHS LONDON plans to groom the capital's most talented nurse leaders to become the health service chief executives of the future.

The strategic health authority has launched Leading for London, an 18-month programme to fast-track top-level managers into chief executive roles in as little as three to five years.

The scheme will be open to all clinical and non-clinical staff at band 9 or equivalent, such as directors of nursing.

It will involve coaching, mentoring, multidisciplinary project work and one-to-one partnerships with executives.

The first cohort starts in spring next year. Candidates will be placed in trusts and private-sector organisations across London.

A rigorous selection process includes psychometric testing and the creation of an evidence-based portfolio, as well as evaluation by an external assessor.

Trish Morris-Thompson, NHS London's chief nurse, said: 'It is pivotal to deliver the best healthcare for London and we are delighted to support nurses and midwives to come forward.'

She said nurses had a particular skill-set that they could apply to any business model. 'Nurses have wide-ranging skills they have acquired through their clinical experience. They can communicate with a range of audiences and articulate the views of patients, carers and staff,' she added.

'I actively encourage nurse leaders and senior nurse consultants to apply for the programme – and for existing directors to support them.'

Staff can nominate themselves but they will also need the endorsement of a senior executive from their trust or PCT.

The closing date for applications is 3 December. Email judy.butler@london.nhs.uk or go to www.london.nhs.uk/leadingforhealth.