My challenge was carving out a role for myself in a new post with a well established Chair. The pair coaching has given us a very healthy environment in which to unpack issues, have slightly risky conversations and to take a more reflective approach. We work in a new team in a new business model with incomplete guidance. It’s essential that the Chair and the Chief Officer speak with one voice.
Pair coaching has strengthened our working relationship to the point that in public, you can’t get a credit card between our positions. This agreed direction of travel means that the whole Governing Body is stronger too; we can’t be played off and we have a mutual understanding of our roles and how to tackle grey areas and difficult issues.
The impact of the pair coaching was much faster because we were so focused on the working relationship. One of the side benefits has been that I have been able to improve our interfaces with other people.
Chief Officer, NHS North Kirklees CCG