Bulletin

Walk in late to the first meeting of the day.

What do you like/dislike about your job?

Like the wide-ranging nature of the job. Greatly dislike our 'clear desk' policy.

What do your colleagues think of you?

On a good day, that I was friendly, argumentative, committed.

What is your proudest achievement?

Getting engaged - corny, but true.

What is your tip for success?

See the bigger picture - but details count.

What has been your worst business mistake?

Paying too much for a house in Newcastle.

What do you do to relax?

The usual things.

What book has influenced you?

Currently, the Talmud. Recently, Capitalism, Socialism, Ecology by Andre Gorz.

How would you like to be remembered?

In my current post, to be remembered is to have been seen to have failed...

Which person in the NHS do you most admire?

Katrina Clark, linen services manager in Consett. She's a real leader and, like many women, totally undervalued by the NHS.

What would make the single biggest improvement in the NHS?

If the NHS grasped the chance to modernise, overcoming inertia and vested interest.

Who is your ideal health secretary?

Frank Dobson is exactly what the NHS needs.