Imposter syndrome, a psychological phenomenon characterised by persistent self-doubt and feelings of fraudulence despite evident success, has emerged as a significant concern among leaders within the UK healthcare sector. This pervasive sense of inadequacy not only undermines the confidence of high-achieving individuals but also poses a risk to their mental well-being and leadership effectiveness.
In this panel discussion, in partnership with SheLeads Health: Women in NHS and Healthcare IT, a vibrant community dedicated to empowering and connecting female leaders within the NHS and Healthcare IT sectors, we explore imposter syndrome from four unique perspectives. Our speakers will share their own personal experiences, while sharing the techniques they have used to overcome feelings of inadequacy.
Charlotte Scott – Executive General Manager, MEDITECH UK & Ireland
I have worked for MEDITECH for over 15 years having started in the UK based team as 1 of 7 staff members to now heading up the UK and Ireland business with nearly 50 people in our team. Our culture is very team focussed, we work hard together to ensure we can enjoy the successes together. I am passionate about ensuring our staff feel supported from a mental health and wellbeing perspective, and am delighted that a number of our initiatives are driven internally by our MHFAs and Wellbeing Ambassadors.
I have felt the impact of imposter syndrome more so in the last 18 months since my promotion to Executive General Manager. Whilst on the whole I have grown in confidence both personally and professionally I quite often have days/moments where I question myself and certainly compare myself to others in the industry. This can be based on when I consider my career path to date, my education compared to others, my accent even, there are triggers that lead to feeling inadequate and result in me questioning my capabilities. I have on the whole associated it with being female and changes in hormones as I have aged, however, recently I have learned that some men experience it as well.
Gozie Oloye – Clinical Systems Analyst, NHS England
I have spent over a decade immersed in the world of biomedical science, navigating the complexities of a bustling hospital pathology lab. Witnessing first-hand the challenges scientists face daily in delivering accurate results in a timely manner, ignited a passion for improving healthcare processes. This drive led me to transition into healthcare IT, where I leverage my scientific knowledge with technology to develop tech solutions that improve diagnosis, treatment and overall patient experience.
I have battled with imposter syndrome, but by recognizing my unique skill set and a focus on delivering value, I’ve found my footing. I’ve learned that combining technical expertise with a strong understanding of healthcare processes is invaluable. I now support lab scientists like me and healthcare professionals looking to make a similar transition by harnessing the power of technology to improve patient outcomes.
Terry Murphy – Cognitive Therapist, Strat180
I’m Terry Murphy I’m a husband and father to 2 grown ups. Qualified Coach and Cognitive Therapist. have worked in the healthtech space for 30 years. People are my business and I am motivated to help others with their life strategies. I remember a time in my early 20s when I literally felt good for nothing. I had this cycle of self condemnation that felt like the weight of the world was on my shoulders and I couldn’t move.
Charlotte John – Former COO, Meditation and Mindset Coach
With over 30 years of frontline NHS and digital health experience, I have climbed from C-Grade to the C-Suite despite having no formal education. Throughout my career, I have navigated the challenges of imposter syndrome often feeling like an outsider in spaces where traditional qualifications are expected and required.
However, these experiences have shaped who I am today with a deep sense of empathy and a commitment to inclusive leadership, and I now share my story to empower others facing similar challenges.
Chaired by Helen Mutton – Director of UK Operations at Alcidion
My career in healthcare IT has been a journey of dedication and growth. As the Director of UK Operations at Alcidion, I draw on over 20 years of experience, but my professional path began much more modestly as a chemist counter assistant at Boots in Clacton-on-Sea.
Like many, I have faced imposter syndrome, yet I’ve worked hard to ignore the intrusive thoughts and I now lead a team committed to enhancing patient care through innovative solutions. I also founded SheLeads Health, a LinkedIn group that promotes diversity, equality, and inclusion, as I believe strongly in these values. My journey has taught me that by focusing on our strengths, building strong relationships, and striving to make a positive impact, we can overcome self-doubt and achieve meaningful progress in our careers.
SheLeads Health: Women in NHS & Healthcare IT is a vibrant community dedicated to empowering and connecting female leaders within the NHS and Healthcare IT sectors. Our purpose is to provide a dynamic platform for networking, fostering meaningful connections, and facilitating professional growth. We welcome individuals of all genders, backgrounds, and orientations to join us in our mission to create a safe and inclusive space where everyone’s voice is valued. By sharing insights, exchanging ideas, and collaborating, we aim to inspire, empower, and drive positive change in the healthcare industry.
19/09/2024 6:00 pm
Location: Zoom
Presented by: Stuart Warner
Head of Systems Engineering , Espanaro
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