We are working in a period of sustained challenge. Many colleagues across the health system are stretched, fatigued and, in some cases, bordering on burnout.

In this episode, Will Clement, a leadership consultant, executive coach and facilitator who has worked across the NHS and with RCPCH, tell us how compassionate leadership offers more than kindness; it delivers measurable improvements in wellbeing, team cohesion and outcomes.

• Read Jonathan's reflections and download the transcript from episode 9 - on RCPCH website
• See related resources about 'Leading the way'- on RCPCH Learning

The views, thoughts and opinions expressed in this podcast relates only to the speaker and not necessarily to their employer, organisation, RCPCH or any other group or individual.

About Will Clement

Will Clement is an experienced leadership consultant, executive coach, and facilitator, with a background spanning public, private, and not-for-profit sectors. He is the founder and Managing Director of Clement Leadership Development, a values-led consultancy specialising in leadership development, executive coaching, and organisational culture.

With over 20 years of experience, including several senior leadership roles with Royal Mail, The AA, NHS and other large complex organisations, Will brings a grounded, practical approach informed by contemporary leadership thinking, coaching psychology, and systems leadership. His style is purposeful, challenging, and human, helping leaders lead with clarity, courage, and care in high pressure environments.

Clement Leadership Development has delivered impactful programmes for national bodies, including NHS Trusts, Royal Colleges, universities, police leadership teams, and local authorities. Will also leads the design and delivery of bespoke leadership frameworks, awaydays, and cultural diagnostics.

A qualified Level 7 executive coach and MBA graduate, Will is passionate about helping drive purpose and professionalism in leaders.

All child health professionals, no matter their role, must have knowledge and skills in safeguarding. As a designated doctor in child protection, Vicki has particular leadership experience in this area and has recently led the redevelopment of intercollegiate competencies for safeguarding and children in care.

Vicki speaks with host Dr Jonathan Darling about her career, which often took an unconventional path; she worked as a teaching fellow, got involved with the RCPCH trainees' committee and became head of service of a growing community paediatrics team.

Leadership often starts with saying "yes" to opportunities that challenge us. But, as Vicki and Jonathan discuss, we can also ask for help, building collaboration. Prioritising self-care is also important, and Vicki has a simple strategy: three minutes of music to reset (in her case, some 1980s soft rock!).

• Read Jonathan's reflections and download the transcript from episode 8 - on RCPCH website
• See related resources about 'Leading the way'- on RCPCH Learning

The views, thoughts and opinions expressed in this podcast relates only to the speaker and not necessarily to their employer, organisation, RCPCH or any other group or individual.

About Vicki

I am a Consultant Paediatrician in Mansfield and the Designated Doctor for Looked After Children in Nottinghamshire. I work in the community paediatric service and with children in care. I've held leadership, management and supervision roles within the Trust.

I was appointed to the RCPCH Child Protection Standing Committee in February 2019 working with the College to support paediatricians, progress training and improve health outcomes for children in care, with an interest in education and migrant health. I was appointed as the Assistant Officer for Child Protection (Education) in April 2022, developing and delivering courses and working as the clinical editor for the eLfH level three safeguarding children and young people eLearning. I was project lead for the recent update of the intercollegiate safeguarding children and children in care competencies. A multi-partner undertaking which took two years to complete. I was also co-lead for the development and publication of initial health assessment (IHAs) standards for children in care. I regularly teach on national courses and author journal articles.

Failure, Steve tells us, is a good teacher, and when you get involved in leadership, expect to make mistakes (and learn from them).

In this episode of our monthly series of leadership conversations, Dr Jonathan Darling, RCPCH VP for Education and Professional Development, speaks with Steve about how his academic and leadership roles evolved, starting with a thin CV and stepping up as opportunities arose. He became involved in child health research, first in small groups, and then collaborating with colleagues across the UK and globe. His route to RCPCH President began with other College roles, including Scottish Officer and Registrar.

Steve and Jonathan talk about his leadership values: realistic communication, a flat hierarchy and a culture of respect.

• Read Jonathan's reflections and download the transcript from episode 7 on RCPCH website
• See related resources about 'Leading the Way'- on RCPCH Learning