The NHS Leadership and Management Framework describes the behaviours, skills, and mindsets required at different stages of leadership and management.
Overview of stages
- Fundamental
- Stage 1: new leaders and first-line managers
- Stage 2: mid-level leaders and managers
- Stage 3: senior-level leaders and managers
- Stage 4: board-level leaders and managers
Selecting the right stage for you
Choosing the correct stage ensures your self assessment is meaningful and aligned to your current role.
If you are unsure which level you should select:
- Focus on the level you operate at most of the time, not your job title
- Consider:
- the scale of your responsibility
- the people or teams you influence
- the complexity and scope of your decisions
- The stage that best represents your current reality, not where you aspire to be
It may be helpful to discuss this with your line manager or to review the personas at the stage you think is right for you.
The stages
Fundamental stage
Fundamental stage outlines the basic skills and knowledge required of every leader and manager – together with the stage specific competencies – and supports those preparing for their first steps into a leadership or management position by setting out the minimum standard and expectations for those leading or managing in healthcare settings.
Stage 1: new leaders and first-line managers
This stage supports individuals in their first supervisory, leadership, or management role, typically with responsibility for just one team or line of accountability.
The competencies help new leaders and first-line managers understand what is expected of them as they begin to take responsibility for the work of others, in addition to their own.
Stage 2: mid-level leaders and managers
This stage supports individuals who have been operating as accountable leaders or managers for a number of years.
The competencies enable these experienced professionals to navigate the bridge between senior leadership and frontline delivery, aligning team performance with broader organisational goals.
Stage 3: senior-level leaders and managers
This stage supports individuals delivering operationally and accountable at a senior management level.
The competencies enable these established leaders to translate organisational strategy into action, lead larger or more complex areas, and influence across functions or systems.
Stage 4: board-level leaders and managers
This stage supports individuals operating and accountable at the most senior level of their organisation, including executive directors, non-executive directors and board members.
The competencies enable these leaders to set or oversee strategic direction and vision, shape organisational culture, and collaborate with peers and stakeholders to deliver national and ministerial priorities.