Rebecca Mayers, Head of Digital Systems and Chief Information Officer at Stockport NHS Foundation Trust, has taken an unconventional path to reach her current role. Here, she reflects on her career trajectory, the importance of female leadership, and the valuable lessons she’s learned along the way.
Unlike many of her peers, Rebecca didn’t have a clear-cut plan to become a technology leader. “It’s never been a direct path to where I am now. It’s never been ‘I want to be a CIO and this is how I’m going to get there.’ I’ve kind of bumbled the way along the road, figured out what I did like, what I didn’t like, and grabbed opportunities that might have opened new doors for me effectively to get where I am today.”
This “bumbling” journey saw Rebecca take on various roles within the NHS, from administration to training and bed management. Her diverse experiences have become her greatest strengths, allowing her to draw from a wealth of knowledge and perspectives.
The Value of Being Technical (or Not)
In a field often perceived as male-dominated and highly technical, Rebecca offers a refreshing viewpoint: “I wouldn’t say you have to be wholly technical to be a technical leader.” She emphasises the importance of surrounding yourself with trusted advisors and subject matter experts, allowing you to focus on the broader strategic vision.
“I can go to a certain level of technical before it starts to become gobbledegook. But I’ve got that basic grasp and understanding, but I’ve got trusted advisors where I can go back to, and they’re not asking me for a right-handed spanner to try and pull my leg.”
The Softer Side of Leadership
Rebecca believes that technical expertise is only one aspect of effective leadership. She places equal value on softer skills, such as active listening, approachability, and treating everyone as an individual.
“I think the most important skill I’ve found is listening because you really need to actively listen as opposed to just waiting to speak back… I think it’s good to be really approachable, so it doesn’t matter who in the team, there’s always an open-door policy.”
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
Like many successful women, Rebecca has grappled with imposter syndrome, that nagging feeling of not belonging or not being good enough. However, she’s learned to confront these doubts head-on, using them as motivation to grow and improve.
“I’ve quite openly talked to members of my staff about what I felt that I can’t do. It encourages them to give it a go as well. Try it. And if you don’t like it, it’s fine. You don’t have to do it again.”
The Importance of Role Models and Advocates
Rebecca credits much of her success to the support and guidance of key mentors and advocates throughout her career. From her previous manager, who “really took me under her wing,” to industry leaders like Philippa Winter, who offered valuable insights, these individuals have played a pivotal role in her professional development.
For those aspiring to leadership roles within healthcare technology, Rebecca raised the importance of curiosity, open-mindedness, and a willingness to step outside one’s comfort zone.
“Ask the questions. Be curious. Try it… you never know, it might just open a new door to you… Keeping an open mind is the key, because there is no one direct path to any particular role.”
Rebecca’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and a growth mindset. By embracing opportunities, facing challenges head-on, and surrounding herself with a supportive network, she has carved out a successful career that defies traditional expectations. Her story serves as an inspiration for aspiring female leaders in any field, reminding us that the path to success is often unconventional, but always rewarding for those willing to take it.
