The Networks Group Mentoring Programme is a structured initiative designed to support emerging and newly appointed digital leaders as they progress toward roles such as CNIO, CCIO, CIO, CSO, or equivalent positions. This programme fosters professional growth, facilitates peer-to-peer learning, and builds connections within the digital health community.
The programme is tailored for:
Emerging and newly appointed digital leaders seeking growth and guidance and who are passionate about advancing their careers in digital health and care leadership.
Individuals on career pathways to roles like CNIO, CCIO, CIO, CSO, or similar digital health leadership positions.
- CNIO – digital leaders in CNIO, nursing, midwifery, AHP, and equivalent roles.
- CCIO – digital leaders in CCIO and equivalent clinical roles
- CIO – digital leaders in CIO, CTO, CDIO and equivalent roles.
- CSO – digital leaders in CSO and equivalent roles.
- DHLP – digital leaders across the NHS ecosystem preparing for senior roles.
Participants can expect:
Expert guidance: Learn from experienced digital leaders within the NHS.
Peer-to-peer learning: Engage with a network of emerging leaders.
Career development: Gain exposure to career advancement opportunities.
Broadened networks: Connect with key stakeholders in digital health.
Confidence building: Strengthen leadership skills in a supportive environment.
The Networks Mentoring Programme is designed to provide a comprehensive and supportive learning experience. Key features include:
One 30-minute individual introductory session: Mentors and mentees identify key development needs and establish goals for the programme.
Six 60-minute group mentoring sessions: Each session is shaped by pre-planned themes provided to mentors, ensuring consistency and alignment with programme objectives. Themes include personal impact and influence; visibility, perception and complexity of role; goal setting and planning.
Regular communication: Mentees and mentors stay connected through email updates and WhatsApp groups, fostering ongoing dialogue, support, and peer-to-peer engagement.
Structured programme materials: Mentors are equipped with resources and session outlines to guide discussions and maintain a cohesive programme structure.
Additional support: A webinar series will run alongside the programme which offers further insights and additional support on various topics across career development. Mentors may offer one-to-one guidance beyond scheduled sessions, depending on their availability and the mentees’ needs. This is at the discretion of the mentor.
The programme now includes five distinct mentoring streams, supported by:
Members of the CIO, CCIO, and CNIO Advisory Panels.
CSO Council members.
Alumni of the Digital Health Leadership Programme at Imperial College.
These mentors are highly experienced and committed to cultivating the next generation of digital leaders, providing invaluable insights and guidance.
To apply, candidates must:
Be an emerging digital leader preparing to take the next step into senior leadership, or a newly appointed digital leader.
Be UK-based and working within the NHS. Applications from supplier organisations will be discounted.
Demonstrate support from their employer.
Articulate how the programme aligns with their career goals.
Have the flexibility to their schedule to fit with the proposed meeting dates and times.
- Be passionate about wanting to advance their digital health career journey.
Priority will be given to applicants not currently participating in other mentoring or leadership programmes.
The application process is now closed for the 2025 Mentoring Programme. We willl make interested Networks members aware of the launch date for the 2026 Mentoring Programme nearer the time.
2026 programme dates are as follows:
September 2025: Applications open, requesting personal details and programme expectations.
October 2025: Candidates are screened, shortlisted, and matched with mentors.
November – December 2025: Introductory 1:1 sessions between mentees and mentors.
January to June 2026: Group mentoring sessions take place.
July 2026: Post-programme feedback surveys will be sent out to all participants.
