Are you an NHS provider board non-executive director planning to apply for a chair role in the next 12 to 18 months?
NHS England recognises the vital role of chairs in leading NHS boards to deliver high quality healthcare and great patient experience. We also know that becoming an NHS provider chair requires a dynamic and strategic skill set coupled with public service values, and a commitment to the core mission of the NHS and its Constitution.
At a strategic level, as we move to systems working, the leadership role of chairs in NHS providers is key to the delivery of the Long Term Plan and the supporting People Plan, particularly Improving Leadership Culture.
NHS England has developed the Aspiring Chair Talent Programme to support the development of a pipeline of strong and diverse candidates for future chair roles on NHS provider boards. Several non-executive directors have stepped up to their first chair role following completion of the previous Aspiring Chair programme that ran in 2021. It builds the skills, experience and knowledge needed to become a chair, leading a high performing successful NHS organisation.
The programme requires commitment and drive and you should be prepared to attend a series of events over the course of the year plus time with your assigned mentor, time observing other relevant boards and meetings, and reflecting and writing up your learning to inform your development plan.
You can find more information on the Aspiring Chair Talent Programme.