09 - Dr. Safiya Virji

Transformational Thinking For Health Leaders - from Fiona Day Consulting

Dr Safiya Virji is a GP, an NHS Appraiser for GPs, and a Training Programme Director for NHS England leading the educational provision for GPs in training.
She is also an Associate Dean of General Practice leading on health equity training, and a senior clinical lecturer for primary care for undergraduate medical students at Queen Marys University of London.
Safiya has particular interests in strategic leadership and inclusion.
Tune in to discover Safiya’s insights on:

• Balancing multiple roles with flexibility and organization.
• The power of inclusivity in leadership and building cohesive teams.
• How reciprocal learning in global health enriches both leaders and the communities they serve.

Reflective Questions for Health Leaders

As you think about your own leadership journey and the themes explored in this blog, consider the following questions to help you reflect and take actionable steps:

1. Purpose Alignment
   • How aligned are your current roles with your core values and long-term vision? Are there adjustments or new opportunities you could pursue to deepen this alignment?
2. Balancing Structure with Flexibility
   • In what ways do you organise your multiple responsibilities, and how might you incorporate more flexibility to adapt to unexpected challenges? What changes could improve your balance and reduce stress?
3. Building Inclusivity
   • How do you actively create a sense of belonging and inclusivity within your team or organisation? Are there specific actions you can take to foster a more inclusive environment that values diverse perspectives?
4. Reciprocal Learning
   • In your leadership practice, how open are you to learning from those you lead or serve? What steps can you take to foster reciprocal learning with your team, patients, or community?
5. Future Legacy and Succession
   • What legacy do you hope to leave within your organisation or field? Are you investing in the development of future leaders who can carry forward your vision and values?
6. Evolving Your Leadership
   • As you envision the next five years of your career, what skills or experiences do you feel would help you grow? How can you cultivate relationships with mentors or peers who can support you on this path?

If you’re interested in exploring coaching or learning more about leadership in healthcare, visit my website, where you’ll find a wealth of resources tailored to medical and public health professionals. Sign up for my newsletter to receive 3 hours of free CPD through the Health Career Success Programme and access a range of articles, tools, and guides to support your career journey.
Dr Fiona Day is the world’s only Leadership Coach with advanced coaching psychology, medical and public health qualifications (MBChB, FFPH, BPS Chartered Psychologist in Coaching Psychology, EMCC Master Practitioner Coach & Mentor) and is in a unique position to help you and your teams to flourish. Fiona specialises in coaching medical and public health leaders, is a coach Supervisor, and an EQA Foundation Award Holder. Book a free confidential 30 minute Consultation with Fiona here.