Behind every high-performing service at Priory is a network of professionals working together, learning from one another and striving to improve. In this interview, Paul shares insight into the power of connection across forensic and R&R services, reflecting on how collaboration, curiosity and stepping beyond your comfort zone can shape both personal growth and organisational impact. His perspective highlights how bringing people together can create change that reaches far beyond individual roles.

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

I’m the Professional Network Lead for Forensic and R&R Services within Priory – My role is really about bringing people together across the Networks. I help connect professionals, share best practice, and create opportunities for collaboration so that we can strengthen services and support each other in our work. A big part of what I do is making sure the voices of our clinicians and the people we serve are heard and reflected in how we develop and improve our services. In short, I’m here to help the network grow, learn, and make a bigger impact collectively than we could alone. 

What I enjoy most about this role is seeing diverse professionals come together, share insights, and achieve results that wouldn’t be possible individually - being at the intersection of talent, expertise, and innovation makes the work both dynamic and rewarding.

2. How has your career progressed since joining Priory?

Since joining Priory, my career has grown significantly, both in scope and responsibility. I started as a preceptor nurse, where I developed a strong foundation in patient care and mentorship. From there, I progressed through the nursing pathway, taking on increasing responsibilities in management and senior management roles, which helped me develop leadership and strategic planning. Each step of my journey prepared me to take on my current role as Professional Network Lead, where I now leverage my clinical expertise, leadership experience, and ability to connect people and resources to drive impactful outcomes across the organisation.

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

The support I’ve received from my manager has been instrumental in my development. He has encouraged me to branch out beyond my core role, giving me the opportunity to work with other departments within the organisation, and this exposure has been invaluable because it has allowed me to understand the organisation more broadly, build relationships across functions, and gain insights into different aspects of how Priory operates. By being pushed to connect with people across the organisation, I’ve been able to expand my network, enhance my strategic perspective, and develop the collaborative skills that are critical to my role as Professional Network Lead – I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunities he has given me. 

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

In all honesty, my best advice is to be open to opportunities, take initiative, and actively build relationships across the organisation. This is a place where your career can grow in many directions, but you get the most out of it if you’re willing to step outside your comfort zone, learn from different teams, and connect with many people across all departments. Seek out mentors, ask questions, and embrace the chance to gain diverse experiences, whether in clinical practice, management, or cross-functional projects. 

The more you engage with Priory and the incredible people who work here, the more you’ll develop professionally and personally. Really try and be brave and don’t be afraid to take on new challenges, as some of the most valuable growth happens when you push yourself beyond familiar territory.

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.