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After an extensive career in midwifery, including involvement with national policy and strategic development, Gill Walton has taken up the reins as RCM chief executive. She tells us about her plans to face growing challenges, to future-proof the RCM and to put members at the heart of decision-making.
Gill Walton has much to bring to the role of chief executive of the RCM: a wealth of experience in midwifery, management and strategic leadership, a readiness to learn and understand - and positivity in spades.
'When I saw the job being advertised, I really felt that I had something to offer,' she tells Midwives. 'Initially it was a surprise for me to get shortlisted, but as I went further through the process I became more and more excited about it. It brings together all the skills and experience I have developed through the years. I feel it is so right for me.'
Gill already has a long-standing connection with the RCM. Having served on the council and various committees and working groups over the years, she says she feels like she knows the RCM well and has 'a lot of respect for what they do'. She also has personal admiration for outgoing chief executive Cathy Warwick.
'I have huge respect for Cathy,' says Gill. 'I love to listen to her, I love her views on things - she will be a really hard act to follow. I am looking forward to developing my own approach to leading the college. She's amazing and I wish she was staying, as I'd love to work with her, not after her!'
Gill takes up her post at a time of huge change in maternity services, with national maternity reviews shifting direction in England and Scotland, and sustainability and transformation plans affecting the Five Year Forward View across the NHS in England.