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Transforming Healthcare: Tom Ashman’s Path to Digital Leadership
For Tom Ashman, what began as a temporary job in the Health Record Centre at University Hospital Southampton (UHS) evolved into a remarkable decade-long career, defined by growth, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to innovation. Today, as a Lead Digital Project Manager in UHS Digital, Tom’s journey is a testament to the transformative opportunities available within the NHS.
From Filing Notes to Leading Projects
In 2013, while still at university, Tom’s journey began at the Health Record Centre in Nursling. "It was like stepping into an Indiana Jones-style archive, managing patient records and supporting admissions, discharges, and transfers on our hospital services" Tom recalls. This foundational role not only introduced him to the inner workings of UHS but also highlighted the importance of precision and teamwork in healthcare operations.
A pivotal moment came when he transitioned to Switchboard Services in 2015. This wasn’t just a call-handling role but a hub of rapid-response coordination. “You’d be on one call with a surgeon, and the next moment coordinating trauma responses with crash teams,” Tom explains. “It was here I felt part of the UHS family for the first time, realising how a hospital of this size—with over 13,000 people in roles from admin to specialist care—comes together to support patients and one another.”
Working under immense pressure, Tom thrived in this environment. "Handling fire alarms, building alarms, and emergency calls taught me to stay level-headed and organised, which became critical skills for my career," he reflects. His dedication and adaptability were key as he moved into more complex roles within UHS. He later took on supervisory responsibilities and transitioned into a secondment opportunity within the Electronic Patient Record (EPR) team. "We worked with users to scope out requirements and test solutions, which really deepened my understanding of how digital systems support clinical and administrative needs," Tom shares.
By 2020, Tom had secured his first formal Project Manager role. Introducing the IT service desk was a major milestone," he says. "It’s a core system, used over 400 times a day, and knowing I contributed to its implementation is incredibly rewarding."
Diving into Digital Innovation
Tom’s curiosity and drive led him to a secondment with the Digital Services team in 2018, as part of the Global Digital Exemplar (GDE) programme. This NHS initiative recognised UHS as a leader in digital transformation, offering Tom the chance to collaborate on cutting-edge projects.
“The GDE programme was a game-changer,” Tom shares. “We were identified as a global digital exemplar and received £10 million to enhance digital innovation. Through this, we implemented solutions like electronic whiteboards and DigiRounds to support clinical teams. Being part of that planning process felt like shaping the future of healthcare.”
These experiences paved the way for Tom’s formal Project Manager role in 2020, where he oversaw impactful projects like launching UHS’s IT closed-loop order processing system. "Every project is about making life easier for staff and improving patient outcomes. That’s what keeps me motivated," Tom says.
The Power of Continuous Growth
Throughout his career, UHS has supported Tom’s learning and development. From professional qualifications in project management to his ongoing Chartered Manager Apprenticeship. UHS has been instrumental in his growth. "Tackling a degree-level apprenticeship was daunting," Tom admits. "But it’s taught me not just theory but how to apply it directly to my work. It’s given me confidence and sharpened my leadership skills."
These development opportunities directly influenced Tom’s career trajectory. Equipping him with the tools to take on greater responsibilities. For instance, his project management qualifications prepared him for roles like overseeing the Back Office Services Programme, with projects including Digital Kiosks and Automated Assistants (chatbot), empowering patients with access to digital, whilst bolstering the work of the UHS administrative teams. The apprenticeship enhanced his ability to navigate strategic challenges, making him more effective in his leadership role as a Lead Project Manager. "Every new qualification or skill I gained seemed to align perfectly with the next step in my career," Tom reflects.
Reflecting on his career path, Tom emphasises the abundance of opportunities at UHS. "I started as a Band 2 and progressed through various roles. If you’re driven and open to learning, UHS offers a pathway like no other," he says.
Advice for Aspiring NHS Professionals
Tom’s advice for those considering a career in healthcare, especially in digital roles, is simple yet profound: “Don’t underestimate the impact you can have. Whether you’re implementing a new IT system or answering a family’s call on the switchboard, you’re contributing to something bigger than yourself. That sense of purpose is unmatched.”
He also highlights the collaborative culture at UHS. “It’s not just about what you do, but how you work with others to make it happen. The variety of people and ideas you encounter here is incredible."
Looking Ahead
As UHS continues to evolve, so does Tom. His current role involves overseeing strategic digital programmes that will shape the future of patient care. “Digital innovation isn’t just about technology; it’s about improving lives,” he says. “That’s the legacy I want to leave at UHS.”
Tom’s story is a powerful reminder that the NHS is more than a workplace; it’s a community where individuals can thrive, innovate, and make a real difference. If his journey inspires you, perhaps your future lies at UHS too. Join a community where innovation and care thrive.
Explore our website to learn more about the diverse opportunities at UHS. Click here to see our open opportunities.
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