Navigating Changes in Independent Healthcare Recruitment

Our Healthcare team partners with clients across various ownership structures to recruit Chief Executives and Executive Directors as well Chairs, Non-Executive Directors, and Board Advisors. In the latest edition of our ‘Independent Sector Insights’, we explore the current trends and opportunities shaping the recruitment landscape, from navigating NHS structural changes to the rise of health-tech businesses. 

Independent Sector Insights 

Our Healthcare team partners with clients of all sizes and ownership structures in the health and care market. This includes public companies, mutuals, joint ventures and high-growth PE and VC backed businesses to recruit Chairs, Chief Executives, Non-Executive Directors and across the full breadth of Executive Committee roles, including Chief Medical and Chief Nursing Officers, Chief Operating Officers and Chief Commercial Officers. We also recruit Board Advisors enabling organisations to bring specialist expertise at particular times in their growth cycle. 

Below are the themes that we are observing in real time. 

Navigating UK Healthcare 

There is a greater need for businesses to stay ahead of the proposed changes to the structure of the NHS to understand the impact on their services. These changes include significant shifts in the role (and number) of Regions and Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) alongside the abolition of NHS England. ICBs will need to further develop their role as strategic commissioners, which will impact independent healthcare providers.

Board Advisory 

We are collaborating with several businesses to identify Board Advisors with the expertise and network to help organisations navigate the shifts in the structure of the NHS, including the commissioning function. Board Advisors play a pivotal role in guiding organisations through periods of change, offering strategic insights and leveraging their extensive networks to facilitate growth and adaptation. Their expertise is particularly valuable during times of structural shifts, ensuring that businesses can effectively respond to new challenges and opportunities. 

Time of Opportunity 

Our research suggests that given the proposed changes in the structure of the healthcare sector and the long-awaited NHS Plan due shortly, this should be a time of great opportunity for many health and care businesses.

This is supported by a growing public interest in using independent healthcare services. We are seeing more conversations now underway around business expansion and M&A activity, alongside more discussion on investment. Businesses that can capitalise on these opportunities are likely to see significant growth and success in the coming years. 

Increasing Activity in Health-Tech Businesses 

We are seeing a growth in activity in the health-tech sector, from start-ups to businesses that already have some scale and want to grow further in different geographies.

Companies are exploring new ways to leverage technology to improve patient outcomes, streamline operations, and enhance the overall healthcare experience. This increased activity is not only fostering innovation but also attracting significant investment, further fuelling the growth of the sector. 

The independent healthcare sector is at a pivotal moment, with significant opportunities for growth and innovation. By understanding and adapting to the changes in the NHS structure, leveraging the expertise of Board Advisors, and capitalising on the increasing activity in the health-tech sector, businesses can position themselves for success. Our team is committed to guiding clients through these changes, making sure they have the right leadership and expertise to succeed moving forward. 

___________________________________________________________

Get in touch. Follow the links below to discover more, or contact our dedicated leadership experts from your local Odgers office here.