Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC) has launched its first Leadership Development Programme, a six-month initiative aimed at strengthening leadership across the hospital’s clinical and administrative departments.

The programme, developed by the Learning and Development Unit within the Human Resources Department, brings together managers and supervisors in a structured curriculum designed to enhance leadership skills, improve team performance and ultimately strengthen patient care.

According to the hospital, the initiative forms part of its broader investment in staff development and succession planning.

Director of Administration Danley Philip said effective leadership is critical to the delivery of quality healthcare.

“Strong leadership is fundamental to everything we do at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre,” Philip said. “The way our leaders support their teams, make decisions, and respond to challenges has a direct impact on our staff, our patients, and the quality of care we provide.”

He said the programme represents an investment in both the hospital’s workforce and its future.

“By strengthening leadership at every level, we are building stronger teams, improving the workplace experience, and ultimately enhancing the care we deliver to our community.”

Over the next six months, participants will complete a series of interactive workshops, virtual learning sessions, leadership coaching, workplace projects and practical exercises focused on communication, strategic thinking, team development and organisational effectiveness.

Unlike traditional classroom training, the programme is designed to allow participants to immediately apply what they learn within their respective departments.

Head of the Learning and Development Unit, Lyandra Richards, who designed the programme, said its emphasis is on practical leadership.
“Leadership is about people. Every interaction a leader has with a colleague, patient, or family member has the power to shape someone’s experience,” Richards said.

“We want participants to become more confident in leading their teams, communicating effectively, developing and empowering their staff, and driving positive change while strengthening the culture of continuous learning across Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre.”

Participants will also compete for Leadership Excellence Awards throughout the programme, with recognition in categories including innovation, coaching, servant leadership, strategic thinking, professionalism and team development.

The inaugural cohort includes Radiology Manager Destine Reid, who described the programme as an opportunity for both personal and professional growth.

“As leaders, we never stop learning,” Reid said. “This program is an opportunity to strengthen our leadership skills, learn from one another, and bring new ideas back to our teams. I’m excited to be part of the first cohort and to contribute to a culture of continuous learning and improvement at SLBMC.”

SLBMC said successful completion of the programme will become an important consideration for future leadership appointments and promotional opportunities, alongside qualifications, experience, organisational needs and performance.

Hospital officials said the initiative is expected to strengthen leadership capacity, support succession planning and help position the institution to meet the evolving healthcare needs of Antigua and Barbuda.