Stepping up into a leadership role takes persistence, self-belief, and a strategic mindset. At our recent Step Up to Director of Public Health webinar, public health leaders shared their experiences, challenges, and strategies for taking on senior leadership roles. The webinar featured insights from Siobhan Farmer, director of public health at Gloucestershire CC, and Stephen Gunther, corporate director of public health at Stoke-on-Trent City Council.
As the public sector faces a growing number of vacancies for director of public health (DPH) roles, now is an opportune time for experienced public health professionals to consider stepping up to this leadership position. With a rising demand for skilled leaders to guide communities through complex health challenges, competition for these roles is growing. To stand out from the crowd, candidates must not only possess deep technical expertise and experience but also demonstrate a strong strategic vision, exceptional leadership abilities, and a proven track record of driving impactful public health initiatives.
The webinar offered practical advice on how to effectively position yourself for success in securing your first DPH role, ensuring that you rise above the competition and make a meaningful contribution to public health at the highest level.
Persistence and finding the right fit
Stephen shared his personal journey of applying for multiple roles before securing his current position. He emphasised the importance of persistence and aligning yourself with the right role and organisation: ‘Sometimes it's about finding the right fit. That could be the place, the location, the authority, or the system in terms of which partners you're working with. So don't be disheartened if you try and don't get the role the first time.'
For professionals looking to advance in their careers, his message was clear: setbacks are part of the process. Learning from each experience, refining your approach, and staying committed to your career path will eventually lead to the right opportunity.
Taking initiative and seizing opportunities
Siobhan highlighted the importance of proactively seeking leadership opportunities. She shared how stepping into strategic roles and taking ownership of initiatives helped her career progression: ‘What was really key was to get into those senior strategic leadership roles or positions and actually be keen enough to take the leadership. It's always looking for that next opportunity, like Homes for Ukraine, saying, "Yes, I can do this. I will deliver this for you."'
Leadership is not just about waiting for the right opportunity but about actively creating and embracing challenges that showcase your capabilities.
Leading impactful initiatives
One of Siobhan's significant leadership experiences was her involvement in the Homes for Ukraine scheme. She shared how this initiative was a turning point in her career and demonstrated her ability to lead large-scale public health responses: ‘It was testament to them saying, we believe in you. We believe you can show that leadership. So, that was a really good experience for me.'
Demonstrating corporate leadership
For professionals aspiring to secure a DPH position, the webinar stressed the importance of showcasing leadership beyond public health expertise.
The question was posed: ‘The chief exec or corporate director will ask ‘Where is this individual's corporacy? What have you taken? What have you led?'
Aspiring leaders should reflect on how they have applied their skills across sectors, the initiatives they have led or shaped, and the impact they have made in community, voluntary, or statutory sectors.
Seeking advice and support
If you're ready to take the next step in your career and want advice on navigating the application process, overcoming setbacks, and finding a role that plays to your strengths, don't miss this chance to learn from those who have been there and succeeded.
Whether it's attending a training course, seeking support of a mentor or coach, or taking the lead on a project, every step helps you grow your leadership skills and prepare for the next big opportunity.
Ready to take the next step?
If you are preparing to step up into a leadership role in public health, gaining insights from those who have successfully navigated the journey is invaluable. Watch the full Step Up to Director of Public Health webinar at https://penna.com/news/step-up-to-director-of-public-health for more practical advice and inspiration.
For career guidance and opportunities, please get in touch.
Nick Raper is Senior Consultant, Executive Search at Penna
