Leadership at Priory is about more than managing services. It is about people, purpose and creating the right conditions for exceptional care to thrive. In this interview, Nadine reflects on what it means to lead in a fast-paced clinical environment, how curiosity and ambition can open unexpected doors, and why supporting others to grow is one of the most powerful parts of her role. Her story offers insight into the breadth of opportunities available at Priory and the impact of leadership rooted in values, inclusion and lifelong learning.

1. What is your role at Priory, and what do you enjoy most about it?

As the Registered Manager of two services, I oversee operational management, quality assurance, and financial performance. While I’m supported by an outstanding team of clinicians, I remain closely involved in clinical conversations and oversight because first and foremost, I’ll always be a nurse. I’m responsible for ensuring our services meet legal and regulatory standards, and I take pride in leading teams that deliver exceptional care.

I love the diversity of my role; the energy, the pace, and the people. No two days are the same and I thrive on seeing staff grow, develop, and make a lasting impact on patients’ lives, not just during their time with us, but long after. It’s a joy and privilege to lead such passionate teams.

I am also the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Chair at Priory, which is new territory for me but an area I’ve always felt incredibly passionate about. I feel lucky to be part of this work and to collaborate with some of the most dedicated network leads across the organisation. The first few months have been focused on building relationships and understanding the existing structures, and I’m genuinely excited about the next 12 months. My aim is to support, foster, and empower our leads so they can grow and positively impact even more colleagues across Priory. My role includes developing a vision and plan aligned with our values, chairing the steering committee, and being a point of contact for anyone seeking support, advice, or signposting to further avenues.

2. How has your career progressed since joining Priory?

I joined Priory as a Staff Nurse, having previously worked as a Senior Nurse in another independent organisation. Seeking a challenge, I relocated from North Wales to Cheadle to work in Male Psychiatric Intensive Care initially.

Over the years, I’ve held several roles: Clinical Nurse Lead, Deputy Ward Manager, Ward Manager, Director of Clinical Services, and now Hospital Director. I’ve worked across two of Priory’s larger hospital sites - Cheadle Royal and Priory Hospital Bristol.

I still remember a former manager from another organisation advising me not to join Priory, warning that it was “too big” and that I might struggle to find opportunities and grow. I’m so glad I trusted my gut as Priory has offered me more growth, challenge, and fulfilment than I could have imagined and I’ve never looked back.

3. What support or opportunities have helped your development at Priory?

I have had some fantastic line managers whilst at Priory, who have really championed my growth and empowered me to strive for more and supported my desire to expand my knowledge and skills. Knowledge is power and I am always trying to upskill myself and promote that within my team. I feel really passionate about supporting others to grow and expand the opportunities available to them.

I have been put forward for opportunities or sought them out myself, initially being asked to step in cover as Interim Hospital Director for a period of three months which I very reluctantly agreed... here I am four years later. 

I have made use of CPD opportunities and benefited from a wide range of training opportunities during my time with Priory – these have included becoming a Level 4 Safeguarding Trainer, becoming an intensively trained DBT therapist, training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, receiving a coaching qualification and attending conferences relevant to my roles held through my time. 

I am currently working towards a Senior Leader Apprenticeship and Executive MBA. It is a juggle completing this alongside my day to day responsibilities however I have a brilliant team around me, full support from my line manager and a great mentor. 

4. What advice would you give to someone considering a career at Priory?

It is an incredible company to work for with so much opportunity available if you want it and willing to work hard for it. It is a great foundation for nurses offering exposure to diverse clinical service lines and the opportunity to build a broad skill set. There are so many avenues to develop and progress and this does not just sit within the typical managerial structure. There are career development opportunities available within Quality, Professional Nurse Education, Advanced Clinical Practitioners, service line involvement, peer review leads etc. If you are driven, curious and passionate about supporting people then Priory is the place you can grow.

Ready to take the next step in your career and explore a rewarding role in mental health? Explore our latest opportunities at jobs.priorygroup.com today.