Executive director induction
21 May 2026
9:30 - 16:30
In-person
Northern location, TBC
Leadership
Governance
Overview
Step into executive leadership with clarity, confidence, and impact
This induction course is designed for new and aspiring executive directors (EDs) in NHS trusts and foundation trusts. Delivered in partnership with NHS England, it offers a comprehensive introduction to the role, responsibilities, and expectations of executive directors in today's NHS.
With expert insights and peer learning, the course provides the essential knowledge, leadership behaviours, and governance skills needed to make a strong, early contribution at board level.
Key takeaways
- Understand the executive director role within NHS trust boards, including leadership expectations and accountability.
- Gain clarity on the legal, regulatory, and governance responsibilities of board members.
- Explore the strategic challenges and opportunities facing NHS boards today.
- Build connections with other executive directors and peers from across the NHS.
- Enhance your confidence to contribute to strategic decision-making and effective board leadership.
Why this matters
Executive directors play a pivotal role in delivering safe, high-quality care and shaping the future direction of their organisations. As the NHS navigates complex challenges and change, strong executive leadership is critical to effective governance, performance, and collaboration. This induction ensures new executives are fully prepared to lead with clarity, resilience, and a system-wide perspective from day one.
Excellent day, motivating and energising. This was very useful for me prior to becoming a full executive director.
What we'll cover
- The role and responsibilities of executive directors within NHS trusts and foundation trusts.
- Governance, risk and assurance in the provider sector.
- Developing your impact quickly as a newly appointed executive director.
- Working with non-executive directors and governors.
- The executive directors role in a well led organisation.
This is a full-day course, with estimated timings of 9:30am to 4pm (subject to change).
Trainers
Paul Devlin
Associate - Board Development Programme
NHS Providers
Paul Devlin is a skilled leader, facilitator, consultant and coach, who draws on a wide range of experience in the third and public sectors. His career has spanned organisations including Age Concern, Action for Children, Derby and Derbyshire Primary Care Trust, Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, and Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. He also provides consultancy to a range of national, regional and local organisations, alongside one-to-one coaching for senior leaders. Paul's work focuses on governance, leadership, involvement, strategy and planning, with a strong emphasis on equality, diversity and service user experience.
Mike Gill
Associate - Board Development Programme
NHS Providers
Pricing
Open to NHS Providers members, associate members and non-members.
Member (trusts and foundation trusts): £450 (ex VAT) | £540 (incl. VAT)
Associate member and integrated care boards: £540 (ex VAT) | £648 (incl. VAT)
Non member: £630 (ex VAT) | £756 (incl. VAT)
You will need to provide a purchase order number at booking to confirm your place on this course. Card payments are also accepted.
Follow the 'Book now' link at the top of this page to book your place. You will need to create an account if you have not already done so.
Great day - Loved meeting colleagues at same stage of their career journey.
Who should attend
- New executive directors who are less than six-nine months in post.
- Deputy directors.
- Aspiring executive directors.
