Day in the life: Ward Manager

I am a Ward Manager for a surgical ward with Plastics and Reconstructive Surgery, Vascular, Gynaecology, ENT specialties and medical patients. I am responsible for leading and managing a dynamic team, ensuring high standards of patient care, and maintaining the efficient operation of the ward.

A typical day is a balance of people management, resource allocation, and clinical oversight. I work closely alongside my team, not only in a leadership capacity but also hands on, delivering patient care where needed. I am a firm believer in team-based care and strive to create a supportive, respectful environment where each team member feels valued both professionally and personally.

My day includes supporting and guiding staff through challenges and successes, listening to patients and encouraging them through recovery, and responding sensitively to concerns or complaints. I also identify opportunities for cost saving through operational efficiency, with team input and collaboration, and uphold the values of mutual respect, inclusion, and professional development. Ultimately, my role is about inspiring others, nurturing potential, and ensuring that both patients and staff feel safe, heard, and cared for.

As a ward manager I manage change and manage the team through change. We recently successfully reopened our new ward, and it came with some challenges, but as a team we are working through each one to get the result that works for the team.

I also enjoy cycling to work. It gives me a sense of freedom, energy, which in turn supports my internal resources to manage my physical and mental wellbeing.

Teamworking and making a difference for patients and my team. We impact lives every day and it is important to make that connection meaningful. We smile and laugh even on challenging days. We work through our differences.

My journey to The London Clinic began with an informal visit, encouraged by someone who saw potential in me. At the time, I was ready for a change and ready for growth both personally and ​professionally. I previously worked at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust. I had not worked in the private sector before, and after two engaging interviews, I was delighted to be offered the role.

In my opinion, the culture at The London Clinic is one of openness, transparency, and continuous learning. I feel this with the people I work closely with be it my local team, the surgical mangers and line manager, clinical governance, patient experience, our consultants. Our CEO is very present and makes regular rounds to speak with the team, listen to their feedback and gives feedback. This is important and reflects the hospital values, working as one.​​We have all contributed to creating an environment where constructive feedback and mutual support are encouraged. There is genuine respect for individuality, where differences are not only accepted but celebrated. I and my team embrace the Clinic’s core values in our daily work, and this shared commitment shines through in our teamwork, dedication, and patient care.

There have been many moments, but the ones that stand out are our work caring for highly complex patients over several months. Before working in the private sector, I did not think there would be very complex patients. However, the multidisciplinary teamwork was extraordinary, from nurses and the therapies team to Tissue Viability Nurses, endocrine specialists, and Consultants. Everyone played a vital role, and ultimately, we were able to safely discharge the patient’s home. It was a powerful example of what can be achieved when we all come together with a shared purpose.

I am also proud of the compassionate initiatives we have embraced at The London Clinic, from Christmas carolling for patients and staff, to wellbeing sessions, and ongoing mental health support for our teams. The Clinic has shown that it values not only its patients but also its staff. Initiatives like dog therapy and music therapy for patients reflected a culture of holistic, patient-centred care.

If you are looking for a place to grow, to be part of a passionate and compassionate community of professionals, and to make a real difference, then this is the place for you. Joining The London Clinic, you will find colleagues who genuinely love what they do, who value collaboration, and who bring their whole selves to work. It is an environment where your contribution matters and where your efforts will be seen and appreciated.