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The Next GenCastBackstage with... Author: Nish Manek
The NextGen Cast is a podcast from Next Generation GP, a free national leadership programme for GPs at the start of their careers. In this podcast, we go backstage with some of our favourite speakers..and get to know the real people behind the titles. You'll hear candid interviews with some amazing leaders from the NHS and beyond, as they share their stories of leading through challenges, the lessons they've learnt, and their top pieces of advice as you embark on your own leadership journey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Language: en Genres: Business, Health & Fitness, Medicine Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Episode 53: Backstage with Jim Mackey, CEO of the NHS
Monday, 23 March, 2026
In this rare and candid conversation, Dr Nish Manek speaks with Jim Mackey, CEO of NHS England, about leadership at the very top of the NHS.Jim reflects on his journey from a working-class upbringing to leading one of the largest healthcare systems in the world, and speaks openly about the reality behind senior leadership - the burden of responsibility, the privilege of making a difference, and the self-doubt that even the most senior leaders experience.This is an honest and thoughtful conversation about leadership, imposter syndrome, career journeys that don’t go to plan, and what it really feels like to lead during one of the most challenging periods in NHS history.Timestamps:00:03:00 – Childhood, early influences & competitive swimming00:07:00 – Career journey from accountancy to NHS CEO00:12:00 – Experiencing imposter syndrome in senior roles00:16:00 – Managing responsibility, stress & family life00:29:00 – Navigating elite spaces & staying true to yourself00:36:00 – Introversion, coaching, and personal energy management00:39:00 – Taking the helm at NHS England during major challenges00:49:00 – Shifting care to the community and the future of healthcare🔔 Follow Next GenGP on LinkedIn for leadership insights and episode updates.📩 Subscribe to our monthly bulletin for exclusive leadership resources and updates on programmes to come Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.











