Tell us a bit about your background and what attracted you to this role?
I started my nursing career as a Healthcare Support Worker at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee while undertaking my nurse training. After qualifying, I spent two years working onboard a tall ship as the sole nurse – an experience that developed my resilience, autonomy and decision-making skills in a unique environment. I then returned to Edinburgh and worked for four years as an ICU nurse, completing my intensive care qualification.
I later moved to London and joined Royal London Hospital in their Trauma ICU, before progressing into a resuscitation role at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital and then taking over the resuscitation service at King’s College Hospital. In my final year there, I held the role of Head of Nursing for Renal and Urology. Alongside my NHS career, I’ve been a member of the Royal Air Force Reserve since 2015. I recently stepped down as Senior Nursing Officer for England following my move back to Scotland and I am now part of 612 Squadron in Leuchars which provides staff from the medical, nursing and health professional fields to support the UK military.
Why NHS Forth Valley?
After marrying a Scot, it was always our ambition to return to Scotland. When I read about the cultural journey underway in NHS Forth Valley, I felt a strong alignment with my own values and leadership approach. When the role was advertised, it felt like a natural fit with both my clinical background and my passion for supporting teams to thrive. I was therefore delighted to accept the position of Chief Nurse for Acute Services following a challenging recruitment process.
What are you best and worst qualities?
This is a tricky question, I’m sure the answer would vary depending on who you asked! I feel that my best quality is that I am a team player. My worst is my ability to eat, regardless of whether or not I am hungry!
Most treasured possession?
My wedding ring which belonged to my father.
What is the best advice you have ever been given?
My uncle always said, “It’s nice to be important but it’s more important to be nice”.
Tell us one thing your colleagues might not know about you?
I work every year as the nurse in charge on the Pyramid stage at Glastonbury which I love!
Pet Hate?
Bad manners.
Describe a typical weekend
My weekends are variable, my husband and I enjoy going out for dinner having a glass of wine. My RAF commitments also take up some of my weekends.
What are your food weaknesses?
All food.
What is your dream holiday destination?
New Zealand is high on the list.
Secret ambition?
To bungee jump off the Auckland harbour bridge.
