Public Health Spotlight Episode 10 – UK Health Security Agency

Navigating a Public Health Career: Insights from Louise Smith

Welcome to the next episode of “Public Health Spotlight,” a podcast series by  Panoramic Associates. This series is devoted to highlighting the essential work accomplished by public health professionals across the UK.  

In our 10th episode, Maisie Hockings, Lead Practice Director at Panoramic Associates, sits down with Louise Smith, the Deputy Director of Revalidation and Clinical Governance at the UK Health Security Agency. Louise brings a wealth of experience and inspiring insights into her impactful work in public health. 

Meet Louise Smith 

Louise Smith has carved a remarkable path in public health, beginning her journey with training in Scotland during a time when the public health landscape was evolving rapidly due to crises like the BSE, HIV, and mad cow disease outbreaks. Her initial interest in community medicine set the stage for a career filled with meaningful contributions and persistent dedication to improving public health systems. 

A Preview into her Role 

Currently, Louise serves as the Deputy Director of Revalidation and Clinical Governance at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). In this role, she oversees a national service that supports consultants in appraisal and revalidation across England. Additionally, she holds the significant role of UKHSA Caldecott Guardian, ensuring the protection and ethical use of personal information to enhance population health. Louise’s focus also includes improving health protection and clinical quality systems within UKHSA, emphasising the importance of data sharing and public health safety. 

Proud Achievements and Ongoing Challenges 

Louise reflects on her varied career, highlighting the rewarding experience of encouraging staff growth and development during her tenure as a Director of Public Health in Norfolk. She shares her profound satisfaction in witnessing the tangible impacts of her efforts, such as the implementation of a 21-week antenatal scan in Scotland. However, she also candidly discusses the challenges faced, particularly when navigating financial constraints and leading through the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

For aspiring public health professionals, Louise offers invaluable advice. She underscores the importance of understanding the intricacies of local government departments and the necessity of building strong, collaborative relationships. Louise also advocates for executive coaching and a flexible leadership style that embraces facilitation and genuine engagement with team members. 

Louise’s passion and dedication to public health shine through in this episode as she encourages future leaders to pursue careers in public health with a clear intent, yet remain adaptable to change. 

Join us for this enriching conversation with Louise Smith, as we delve into her inspiring journey and the impactful work she continues to champion at UKHSA.

Click the link below to listen and watch on your preferred platform. Stay tuned for more episodes featuring dedicated public health professionals making a difference in their communities. 

Stay tuned for more episodes featuring dedicated public health professionals who are making a significant impact in their communities.