Meet the Women of Nuffield Health – Jo Dickson

Can you tell us about your role at Nuffield Health?

My role is as Clinical Informatics Director; that means that I get involved in all technology workstreams and projects which have a clinical element to them. It’s a great role, as I am able to interact with colleagues across the organisation. I see myself as the ‘bridge’ or translator across the clinical teams and colleagues in IT.

Over the past year I also had the opportunity to be part of an amazing team who completed the transformation of a conference centre in Manchester into the Nightingale Hospital North West. I was asked to get involved to support the implementation of clinical IT systems into the new facility. The dedication and commitment demonstrated by every individual was amazing to see; some people working as volunteers on their days off, and others taking on roles way outside of their usual comfort zone was truly inspirational.

What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

Its an opportunity to celebrate all kinds of people in my opinion! Though I think it is important to recognise the contributions of women specifically on this day, and to celebrate progress we make as individuals and collectively, I think it is also important to be inclusive, and use the day to celebrate anyone who feels that their accomplishments may be silent, but brilliant!

What do you think is the biggest challenge for women today and what has been your biggest challenge?

I think the biggest challenge women face is in being pointed in a specific direction just because of their gender; whether that be girls being told they cannot aspire to a particular career, or women who feel that they need to marry and have children to ‘fit in’. I don’t like the idea that anyone should have to follow a set societal idea of what a woman should achieve in her life. I feel very lucky that my career and personal life has not really presented any specific challenges related to my gender. I’ve always been supported by family, friends and professional mentors who have not had any pre-conceived ideas about what a woman should be, think or do!

Which woman has inspired you and why?

Since I’m a nurse, I should probably say Florence Nightingale, and although I do find her inspiring, I’m actually going to say Maya Angelou. She led a really interesting (but definitely not privileged) life, was a champion for civil rights and came up with some of my favourite quotes – including my favourite of all; ‘I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.’

Last updated Thursday 4 March 2021

First published on Thursday 4 March 2021