In our latest Get to know feature we catch up with the NHS Workforce Alliance South East regional team led by Frances O’Grady.
Team overview
The South East team works collaboratively with 28 Trusts across six Integrated Care Board (ICB) regions, supporting and transforming healthcare systems through innovative workforce solutions.
Who leads the team?
Frances O’Grady, Associate Procurement Director, leads the South East team, bringing extensive procurement experience and a proven track record of delivering bespoke, complex projects. Fran is dedicated to delivering consistent improvements in quality, performance, and cost-efficiencies across NHS boundaries in the South East region.
What experience does the team have?
Our team brings a wealth of diverse experience, making us dedicated category specialists with deep expertise in workforce and procurement markets. We collaborate closely with NHSE, NHS Employers, regional leads, and other partner organisations to understand needs and identify key opportunities for value creation and optimisation at all levels
How does the team collaborate with NHS providers, systems and networks?
We directly advise and support providers and systems, leveraging valued networks and strong relationships to share best practices and gain valuable insights that better inform workforce solutions.
What has been a highlight for the team since it was created?
Over the past few years, the South East team has expanded our offering to additional ICB areas in alignment with NHSE’s updated regions. This has enabled us to align and enhance processes, rates and market engagement to deliver optimum benefits to the NHS. To meet these needs, the South East team has expanded in the past year with the addition of Emma Forrester, our Lead Category Manager who brings a wealth of Bank and Temporary staffing provider experience. Reeya Chitteth, supports the team as first point of call with regional provider and supplier queries.