Name: Jo Lenaghan
Job: They do not have job titles in the Department of Health strategy unit, you know.
Style: Puts the think in your tank. 'Very bright, very quick' analytical mind, 'a good colleague with lots of ideas and good networks', she 'occupies the middle ground between politics and research - It is why she works in think-tanks'. Said to have stayed 'independent'in the DoH, and 'able to bring people round a table to agree on issues'. Also seen as 'considerate'and 'funny'. Loves food, cooking and walking.
Background: Left Glasgow University in 1992 with a degree in English and film studies to work for victim support group Clydeside Action on Asbestos. Joined the NHS in 1994 as clinical audit co-ordinator at King's College Hospital. But a year later, Blairite think-tank the Institute of Public Policy Research snapped her up. With a track record of work on rationing, public involvement and genetics, she popped up in 1999 on the board of the New Health Network, that happy band living in the radiance of Tony Blair's smile. Made the short leap into the DoH in 2000. Credited with work on the NHS plan and the early stages of policy on replacements for CHCs. Not sure how much she'll recognise when the Lords have finished with it. But It is funny how her other areas of interest - genetics, say - are turning up in Alan Milburn's speeches.
Future prospects: A nice rest as civil servants enter election 'purdah'- although her new baby will make it a tad less restful. Set for a key post-election role fleshing out Labour's second-term health policy. Full-scale guru-dom can't be far off.
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