The change agent: The manager's role in change

Within this article the author will examine the manager's role in the change process. Change within the NHS is an ever-present reality, whether proposed from within your own department and identified by your own staff, or forced upon you from outside. However, participating within the change process can distract managers away from the vital job of managing their service or department. Therefore, as a manager it is vital to recognise the focus of your role and to then support a strong leader and expert who will act as 'change agent' to see the change through to a successful conclusion.