RCM Director for Northern Ireland

Job/Role Summary

As Northern Ireland Director for the RCM I provide leadership and direction to ensure that the RCMs position in NI as the UK principal professional body and trade union for midwives is sustained. I am responsible for the delivery of services to RCM members and to ensure that the RCM is positioned to influence key professional and employment relations issues within Northern Ireland. To achieve this I work collaboratively with key stakeholders across Maternity Services, Health and Social Care, Department of Health and Government to influence policy and debate.

Specific qualifications and experience required

A Midwife currently registered with the NMC.

Midwifery qualification with education to Masters level or above.

Proven success in a senior leadership role, professional credibility gained at a local or national level, experience of sucessfully implementing significant change and improvement, familiar with membership organisations and their needs.

Career Milestones

Midwife for over 25 years: this developed my passion and enthusiasm for midwifery, maternity care, women, their babies and families.

Midwifery Lecturer and Lead Midwife for Education: this role gave me opportunities to advocate for Midwifery and Midwives with the School of Nursing and Midwifery but also within the wider university. I had opportunities to engage in a wide range of projects both within the university but also engaging outside of the university developing strong professional networks and skills in collaborative working.

Senior Professional Officer NIPEC: this role further developed my professional networks and project management skills enabling me to engage with a wider range of professional groups and services.

What attracted you to this job?

A desire for further professional development and challenge.

The ability to work in an organisation with a UK remit.

There is a strong focus on Midwifery and Maternity care.

The ability to influence on behalf of Midwives, MSWs and ultimately women.

Enjoyable aspects of the job/role

Engaging with Midwives, MSW’s and women about maternity services and ensuring their voices are heard.

Working collaboratively with other trade unions, professional organisations and stakeholders across the UK and Ireland.

Engaging in policy issues both locally and nationally on behalf of midwives and MSWs.

Challenging aspects of the job/role

The workload is extensive and needs careful balancing to ensure that all elements are adequately managed.

There are challenges working within a UK organisation and ensuring that NI issues are heard.

Important success factors

A supportive induction programme with a clear induction process.

Availability of supportive line management and mentoring opportunities.

Networks of supportive colleagues who act as critical friends.

Advice for those considering the type of job/role?

Take time to form networks and contacts who can support you in your role.

Recognise that the role is dynamic and evolves and that it can take time to understand the full remit.

Key skills that can be gained within this job/role?

Enhanced time management skills.

Enhanced communication and negotiation skills.

Understanding of membership organisations and their needs.

Career Profiles