One year in: why the Intensive Care Society matters to me
This month marks one year since I joined the Intensive Care Society as CEO, and I wanted to reflect on the past year in a meaningful way and share why this role is so important to me.
Last July, at State of the Art, I felt quite vulnerable sharing my personal story as a speaker, but I’m glad that I did. Long before I ever held this role, intensive care touched my life in a way that shaped who I am today.
My dad is a bit of a medical marvel. He nearly died when I was born, has survived two complex head and neck cancer operations, and in 2012 suffered a cardiac arrest on the street that led to a stay in intensive care. We are incredibly lucky he is still with us and grateful for the time we continue to share. This year he turns 70, and we continue to make memories together as a family, just as many survivors of intensive care and their loved ones do.
During his time in ICU, I wrote down the name of every single person involved in his care. And I still have that list to this day. I did it because I was overwhelmed with gratitude. For the skill, compassion, reassurance and humanity shown to us at a moment when everything felt so fragile.
The entire intensive care multidisciplinary team didn’t just save my dad’s life; they listened, explained, and made us feel that he was never alone.
And it means a great deal to me to now be part of that community.
So, when I reflect on my first year as CEO of the Intensive Care Society, I do so with both professional pride and personal gratitude.
What I’ve learned in my first year
Above all else, this year has been about people.
I have been struck by the passion, generosity and commitment of our members, volunteers and colleagues. The Society is strengthened by the diversity of skills, perspectives and interests that people bring and I am determined that everyone feels there is a place for them here.
I have also been continually impressed by what a small staff team can achieve. The ICS team works tirelessly, often under challenging circumstances, yet consistently delivers for our members and for patients. I am grateful for their resilience and dedication.
We have made real progress this year. From the continued success and expansion of FUSIC, including new modules, international partnerships and the launch of a new learning management system, to new and refreshed guidance, study days and collaborative projects, the breadth of work is remarkable.
Partnership has been another defining theme. Whether working with UK partners on guidance and sustainability initiatives, or strengthening relationships with international societies, one thing is clear: we achieve greater impact when we work together.
Looking forward: a refreshed strategy, rooted in core principles
Last year, I led a refresh of our strategy, reaffirming who we are and where we will be launching in the coming days.
Patients and their loved ones are at the heart of everything we do. Their experiences must guide our decisions and shape our priorities as a core principle.
Alongside this sits our unwavering commitment to supporting every professional working in intensive care, at every career stage, across every discipline and setting. Our aim is simple: that our community feels represented, supported and able to succeed.
Our refreshed strategy sharpens our focus on what members have told us matters most: meaningful membership value; strong leadership and advocacy; high-quality standards and research; learning and accreditation that evolves with practice; and a world-class congress that inspires and connects.
Running through all of this are principles we do not compromise on. Equality, diversity and inclusion are fundamental to who we are. Sustainability is embedded across our work. Wellbeing remains a golden thread, recognising the immense pressures faced by the intensive care workforce.
We are also preparing for the future, strengthening governance, embracing digital transformation and ensuring financial sustainability, so the Society can continue to serve its members and patients for years to come.
A thank you
None of this is possible without our members. The Society is powered by your expertise, your willingness to contribute, and your shared commitment to improving care for the sickest patients.
As I look ahead, I remain positive. Because I know intensive care professionals do hard things every day. You save lives. You innovate. You care.
And that is why I am proud to serve as CEO of the Intensive Care Society.
Thank you for the trust you place in us, and in me.