How do I become a chief nurse?
How do you become a chief nursing officer? Find out about career paths, nursing skills, and the leadership responsibilities of this nurse job.
Have you set your sights on becoming a chief nurse one day? Here’s how three nurses achieved the top job.
Karen Bonner, regional chief nurse, NHS London
After becoming an enrolled nurse in 1991, Ms Bonner qualified as a state registered nurse four years later. While she’d always wanted to be a nurse, she had never considered management.
‘My journey hasn’t been linear,’ says Ms Bonner. ‘I’ve moved sideways and gone down bands. It’s been zigzag. Progression is about getting the best version of yourself to lead in the way you choose,’ she says.
Career pathway to becoming a chief nurse
Ms Bonner's advice for becoming a chief nurse is to be true to your values and find a mentor.
‘That’s what will keep you grounded. These can be lonely jobs if you don’t have a network of people to support you,’ says Ms Bonner.
Sarah Burton, chief nurse, Hillingdon Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Sarah Burton was appointed as chief nurse at Hillingdon Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in London in 2022. Ms Burton has dyslexia, which she believes has made her a strong communicator.
‘Because I found writing wasn’t something I loved to do, I’d always talk to people. It strengthens your verbal skills,’ she says.
‘It made me more determined because I felt I wouldn’t let it get in the way.’
How to become a chief nurse
Ms Burton's advice for becoming a chief nurse is to see challenges as stepping stones, not road blocks.
‘Whether it’s personal struggles or work pressures, let these experiences shape you into a more compassionate and resilient leader. The challenges you face can become your greatest strengths,’ urges Ms Burton.
Oliver Soriano, chief nurse, Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust
The first Filipino to become a chief nurse in the UK, Oliver Soriano took on the post at Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust in October 2023.
When he asked to apply for post, he was surprised. ‘In my culture, we often talk about having imposter syndrome. But I think lots of people have it. You ask yourself, am I the right person? Am I doing the right thing?’
He has found having supportive conversations with colleagues helps. ‘The reason you’re in the post is people have believed in you,’ he says.
Securing a chief nurse officer job
Mr Soriano's advice to secure a chief nurse officer job is to believe in yourself. ‘And be your authentic self. Being who you are gives you confidence,’ he says.
This is an abridged version of the article How do I become a chief nurse? Tips for getting to the top which was which was first published in Nursing Standard. Read the full article for more tips and advice from the chief nurses, including how to be a good leader, the importance of mentorship and coaching, and how to embrace the challenges of this senior nursing role.
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