The National Finance Leaders Talent Pool is suitable for Deputy Finance Directors (or equivalent) who are ready-now to advance in their careers to board-level Chief Finance Officer or Finance Director.
The pool is supported by the Finance Leadership Council, NHS England’s Regional Finance Directors, and the NHS Leadership Academy.
“Our aim is to build a diverse pool of talent that improves the number and quality of applicants for finance leadership roles that reflect the populations that we serve.” Cathy Kennedy, Director of Operational Finance, NHS England – NEY.
Selection into the Talent Pool is through a competitive application and interview process designed to reflect board level FD/CFO application procedures.
Once you have completed the development centre, you will also gain access to your Leadership Academy regional multidisciplinary aspiring director talent pools, where available.
Programme objectives:
Following the application and interview process, successful candidates will be enrolled onto the National Finance Leaders Talent Pool for a two-year period. As part of this, candidates will attend a two-day residential development centre which will provide an opportunity to meet other members on the pool and partake in a wide range of activities including:
- group discussion, presentation, and stakeholder engagement exercises
- personal development masterclasses
- opportunities to experience first-hand how an NHS Board operates
- networking opportunities with peers, senior leaders, and regional finance directors
- time to reflect and support to produce a personal development plan
- 1 on 1 coaching sessions.
Following the development centre, a bespoke two-year programme will be designed for participants based on the personal development plans to support the cohort in securing CFO roles. This will include National Masterclasses, Action Learning Sets with peers and further 1 on 1 coaching sessions.
“I’ve found this programme to be exactly what I needed, and it’s supported me to step into my first Board-level CFO role last year. I’ve come away with practical ideas, a fantastic network of supportive colleagues across the NHS, and a group of people I know I can pick up the phone to long after the programme ends. If you’re thinking about applying, I’d wholeheartedly recommend it. It might just be one of the best things you do to further yourself (and you’ll probably gain a few new WhatsApp contacts along the way too!).”
CPD hours:
Participants who complete all programme sessions will be awarded approximately 50 CPD hours.
How to apply:
Applications must be submitted by completing the application form, which requires a cover letter or personal statement, responses to a series of questions based on NHS Finance competencies, and a supporting statement or letter from your Executive CFO. Additionally, you are required to submit an up-to-date CV as part of your application.
Applications for the 2027 cohort will open Sep 26 – Jan 27
Costs:
Free for all NHS finance staff who qualify. Travel and expenses are not included.
Role of the NHS Chief Finance Officer:
The HFMA has updated its Role of the NHS chief finance officer statement. It provides an authoritative analysis of what being a CFO in the NHS involves, the skills and values required and the key part they play as leaders within their organisation and the wider health economy.
It is a resource for existing CFOs, aspiring CFOs, or people who want to understand how to better work with CFOs to deliver high quality care. As well as being an explanatory tool, it also provides an objective blueprint that individuals can use to support their professional development.
Read the statement on the HFMA website.