Jill Cassells

Jill Cassells on her first 30 days at Attain.

Tell us a little bit about yourself

I joined the NHS in 2009 on the Gateway to Leadership Scheme, after successful career in banking.  The scheme was to integrate private sector senior leaders into health, encouraging a wider focus on business management and performance in the NHS.  I joined the North East Strategic Health Authority as Head of Commissioning for Education and Quality – therein beginning my career in system workforce.  I have held senior posts through Health Education England, and latterly worked as Director of Workforce for the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System.  I have been fortunate to have been involved in developing collaborative and partnership working, throughout my NHS career.  I have a real passion in recognising opportunities and developing initiatives to meet the health and socio-economic needs of our communities.

How have your first 30 days been at Attain?

My first 30 days have been excellent.  I was lucky enough to join a company meeting before I actually started, so had the opportunity to meet the team, and was warmly welcomed by everyone.  It allowed me to gain early insight into the company and the breadth of fabulous work they were doing.  The induction programme is fabulous, allowing me to get a good understanding of function, people and processes, and was fortunate to be allocated two projects immediately.  This has not only allowed me the opportunity to showcase my skills early on, but introduced to some great clients and to the fantastic supportive people within the Attain, who are more than happy to help, if you need it.

What attracted you to Attain?

Having worked in system leadership for many years, the ability to successfully deliver collaborative projects is challenging.  I was keen to use my skills and experience to support organisations and systems to transform and implement change, where is it is needed and wanted.  The values of Attain very much align to my own, with a genuine commitment to improving health outcomes for our population, and investing public funding in projects that will see value across change and innovation.

What’s the best thing about being employed with Attain?

The people.  Having the opportunity to work with and learn from such a diverse team, with broad reaching skills and experience is fantastic.  I felt part of the organisation before day one, and have found the support incredible.  Everyone reached out to say welcome me and offer their help, if needed.  Fair to say, I have capitalised on the offers, and no matter what the ask, people have gone out of their way to help.

What do you hope the future brings for you with Attain?

I hope I am able to add value to the organisation, and in turn to the system, using my skills and knowledge to support innovations and transformation.  I am looking forward to developing great relationships with colleagues and clients alike, further honing my skills and challenging myself to develop a wider range of expertise across a varied range of initiatives.