Tell us a bit about your role
I’m one of the Programme Directors for the Provider Collaboratives. I work with partners across the NHS and wider system to improve specialist mental health services and make sure patients get the right care in the right place. A big part of the role is bringing people together across organisations and finding practical solutions that improve pathways for patients. I’m also currently supporting the expansion of delegated commissioning across Sussex Partnership, which is an interesting piece of work looking at how we strengthen commissioning across the system.
How long have you been in your role?
I joined the Surrey system in October 2023, so I’m still relatively new, although it feels like a lot has happened in that time. Before that I worked at Kent and Medway ICB, first as the Head of Mental Health Commissioning for Medway and then as the Programme Lead for Community Mental Health Transformation across Kent and Medway.
What’s the best thing about your job?
The best thing about my job is seeing the difference the work can make for patients and families. Much of what we do is about improving pathways and helping people get the right support earlier and closer to home. I also really value working with passionate colleagues across the system who care deeply about improving mental health services – when everyone pulls together you can achieve real change.
How did you get into the role?
My career in the NHS actually started as an analyst, which probably explains why I still enjoy looking at the data behind how services are working. Over time I moved into commissioning and transformation roles and became really interested in improving services across whole systems rather than just within one organisation. Having seen personally how important mental health support can be, it’s an area of the NHS that I feel very passionate about.
Before joining the NHS, I worked for an airline, British Midland Airways, which was a completely different world. Much later on I met my husband on an EasyJet flight home from Naples – proof that sometimes the best things in life really do happen when you’re travelling.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Outside of work I love travelling and exploring new places whenever I get the chance. I enjoy discovering different cultures, food, and experiences around the world. I’m also a big fan of cheese, wine and clothes and probably have more dresses in my wardrobe than I really need! Most of all I enjoy spending time with family and friends and finding ways to switch off from a busy job.
Is there anything people might be surprised to know about you?
I was actually born in Brighton, so it feels a bit like things have come full circle now that I’m employed by Sussex Partnership. I grew up in Nottinghamshire and now live in Kent after meeting my husband.
So, if you ever need recommendations for somewhere interesting to travel, a good cheese or somewhere to buy a great dress, feel free to drop me a message – I’m always happy to help.
