Future-Proofing NHS Healthcare Services: Change Management and Leadership Skills

In the dynamic healthcare landscape, organisational change poses significant challenges requiring adept leadership with strategic change management skills—enter Dr Stephen Ng Man Sun.

Dr Stephen Ng Man Sun's journey through The Imperial College and Corndel Healthcare Leadership programme at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust exemplifies this necessity.

His experience during the restructuring of the West London Children's Healthcare into a separate directorate shines a light on the vital role of change management leadership skills to ensure uninterrupted healthcare services.

Change management skills for the 21st century – implementing real solutions

Dr. Stephen's leadership programme gave him essential skills that transformed his healthcare leadership approach. He reflected on the impact of learning about different leadership styles, saying:

"The modules about different leadership styles were beneficial because that made me reflect on how I handle myself in the workplace."I have become the department's clinical lead because I have more insight into how the NHS works as an organisation and how to handle people."

Dr Stephen Ng Man Sun's leadership training culminated in his adept use of big data to influence organisational decisions effectively. He enthusiastically shared the success of his approach: "My project has now been implemented."

Stephen leveraged comprehensive data analytics to build compelling business cases, demonstrating the critical needs within his department. He described his strategic communication technique: "I utilised data to demonstrate the need and presented this in a solid business case. And they can't say no because it's all there, so clearly in the data… Learning how to talk about the NHS as a business was very insightful, and I think this is where many clinicians have fallen down in the past."

This skilful application of his training solved more than immediate issues—it also established Stephen as a persuasive communicator capable of engaging with organisational leaders on their level. His ability to present data-driven arguments has positioned him as a crucial player in shaping the future direction of his department.

Return on investment

The leadership programme has proven to be a significant investment in Dr Stephen's professional development, enhancing his skills and leadership capacity.

Considering the intensive commitment required, Stephen observed, "The amount of time you put in is worth the amount you upskill as a leader." This dedication transformed him from a routine clinician to a key leadership figure within his department.

He articulated the elevation in his professional role, stating, "This has taken me from being just a run-of-the-mill clinician to being recognised as a clinical lead figure within the department.

It has definitely elevated my presence as a leader and my leadership and management skills." The programme repositioned Stephen as a central figure capable of directing and shaping the department's future.

Stephen further highlighted the practical application of his new skills, particularly in mentoring: "I've been a mentor before the course, but this programme has consolidated those skills. I feel confident mentoring different characters and personalities." This demonstrates the programme's comprehensive impact, equipping him with the tools to lead and mentor effectively within a complex healthcare environment.