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North East Ambulance Service

Commercial Training Manager Review

at North East Ambulance Service

Degree Apprenticeship

Business Operations

Newcastle upon Tyne

Review Submitted: April 2025

Overall Rating

5 /5

The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!

5/5 - Overview of Role
5/5 - Skills Development
5/5 - Structure and Support

Overview of Role

Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
I have been with NEAS for the past six years, overseeing the day-to-day operations of the commercial training team. This team plays a crucial role in generating income for the Trust, which is reinvested into core services. We achieve this through various activities, including training course delivery, event medical services, bid writing, and the sale of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs).
I currently line manage 11 individuals and act as a senior manager to over 70 staff in the education team at NEAS this includes; CORE training, Driver Training, Digital Education and The Training Admin team.
Some of my key responsibilities include:
Supervising staff: Overseeing daily activities and ensuring the team meets its goals.
Performance management: Monitoring employee performance, setting objectives, conducting appraisals, and providing feedback.
Staff development: Identifying training needs, organizing development programs, and supporting professional growth.
Team motivation: Fostering a positive work environment to ensure staff feel engaged and supported.
HR responsibilities: Managing recruitment, interviews, attendance, disciplinary matters, and grievances.
Resource management: Allocating tasks, ensuring efficient use of resources, and managing workloads.
Communication: Acting as a liaison between senior management and staff to ensure clear communication of policies and updates.
Business continuity compliance: Ensuring the team operates effectively, even during disruptions.
Budgeting: Monitoring spending, managing expenses, and contributing to budget planning.
Problem-solving and conflict resolution: Addressing issues or conflicts efficiently and fairly.
Horizon scanning: Identifying emerging trends, risks, and opportunities to inform strategic decision-making.
Financial forecasting: Analysing financial trends, projecting future income and expenditure, and ensuring financial sustainability.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
It was fabulous and taught me how to put theory into practice

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
1. Strategic Leadership and Decision-Making
One of the most valuable aspects of this degree has been the emphasis on strategic leadership. I’ve learned how to navigate complex healthcare environments by making data-driven decisions, anticipating challenges, and aligning team objectives with organizational goals. The ability to balance operational needs with long-term vision has been critical in my role at NEAS, particularly in commercial training and service development.
2. Change Management and Organisational Development
The program reinforced the importance of effective change management. I gained insights into leading transformational initiatives, engaging stakeholders, and overcoming resistance to change. This has been instrumental in projects like transitioning TWFRS from FROS trauma training to FREC and introducing event medical cover at Newcastle Falcons.
3. Healthcare Policy and Global Systems
Studying international healthcare systems has provided me with a comparative perspective on best practices, efficiencies, and challenges faced worldwide. Understanding how policy shapes healthcare delivery has been particularly useful when considering potential roles within the Integrated Care Board (ICB).
4. Financial and Operational Efficiency
The program deepened my understanding of financial management in healthcare, including cost-effectiveness, budgeting, and resource allocation. These skills have proven valuable in managing the commercial training team, ensuring revenue generation aligns with the Trust’s financial objectives.
5. Performance Management and Workforce Development
A crucial learning outcome has been the refinement of my approach to performance management. The degree emphasized methods for setting clear objectives, tracking progress, and fostering continuous professional development. This directly supports my leadership approach at NEAS, where I focus on empowering my team while maintaining accountability.
6. Innovation and Digital Transformation in Healthcare
With healthcare rapidly evolving, the program highlighted the importance of digital transformation. My collaboration with the Digital Education Team has allowed me to apply these learnings, particularly in integrating new simulation technology and enhancing e-learning initiatives.
Real-World Application and Impact
The MSc has not only expanded my theoretical knowledge but also reinforced my ability to apply these principles practically. From optimizing commercial training strategies to contributing to service evaluations like the falls impact reduction pilot, my studies have continuously informed my decision-making and leadership.
Final Thoughts
Overall, this degree has been an invaluable investment in my professional growth. It has strengthened my leadership capabilities, strategic thinking, and ability to drive impactful changes in healthcare education and service delivery. As I continue my career, I am confident that the knowledge and skills gained through this MSc will play a pivotal role in shaping my contributions to the sector.

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
Extremely well structured
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
My mentor Dr Jonathan Knox was outstanding. I was also accommodated with the OTJ day with the team I was in.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
Teesside University were great.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
has helped me become a better leader
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
Yes

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend North East Ambulance Service to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Its a great place to progress
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to North East Ambulance Service?
Plan your path and speak to people in the roles you would like to be in! They are always very helpful!
In This Review
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