In the Autumn of 2022, the London Finance Academy ran a competition for lower banded, under-represented finance staff to attend the 2022 HFMA Annual National Conference in London. The aim was to increase the profiles of the individuals and encourage self-development and career progression through experience and increased networking opportunities.

The London Finance Academy is delighted to once again offer this fantastic development opportunity for the London region. Thanks to the generosity of colleagues at NHS England London we have 10 places available for our colleagues across the patch to apply for, so that they can attend the HFMA Annual Conference in London, from 4-8 December 2023.

Why should you apply?

This is a brilliant opportunity for those to attend the conference who would not normally get the chance to do so. The conference will provide opportunities to network with finance professionals from across the country, to listen to leading figures in NHS finance and world-renowned healthcare speakers.

The winners will also be invited to a networking drinks reception on the Wednesday evening and Gala dinner on the Thursday.

Who can apply and how to apply?

If you work at a grade 8a or below and are a member of HFMA (membership is free to all staff in bands 2 to 6) you can nominate yourself, or be nominated by a line manager or work colleague, by submitting an application form.

If you nominate yourself, please ensure you have the support of your line manager.

How is the competition judged?

A panel will review the nominations and award places on merit, ideally ensuring a fair spread across the ICBs.

Support before, during and after the conference

You will be invited to join a series of introductory sessions via Teams to meet NHSE London senior finance staff and provided with tools for networking and understand what to expect at the conference

You will be assigned a buddy ahead of the conference to help you prepare for the conference. Buddies will be an experienced system partner finance professional to ensure that you are able maximise the networking opportunities.

Following the conference you will have the opportunity to continue networking with other competition winners and be made aware of exisiting and upcoming development opportunites.

Applications will open in September 2023, more information will be available soon!