Management retention in the NHS

Abstract

High turnover amongst middle managers in organisations can lead to strategic instability as well as operational issues. Since the advent of the NHS internal market flatter management structures have led to middle managers being given more responsibilities along with larger spans of control. This has exacerbated the consequences of the high turnover found amongst service managers. This study examines the relationship between the length of time service managers wish to stay with their organisation, their participation in decision making in directorates, the feedback they receive and their perception of feeling valued. It outlines the findings from a small study and discusses the implications for health trusts.