%0 Journal Article
%T Leading through the COVID-19 pandemic: Experiences of UK Executive Nurse Directors.
%A James AH
%A Dimond R
%A Jones A
%A Watkins D
%A Kelly D
%J J Adv Nurs
%V 0
%N 0
%D 2024 Jul 14
%M 39003631
%F 3.057
%R 10.1111/jan.16329
%X <B>OBJECTIVE: </B>To explore the challenges experienced by Executive Nurse Directors during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to inform future nursing leadership strategies.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>A qualitative research project involving interviews with 21 Executive Nurse Directors from England and Wales.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>Participants were purposively sampled and recruited through Chief Nursing Officers and nursing leadership networks. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and recorded online via Teams. Braun and Clarke's approach to thematic reflexive analysis was applied to data analysis.<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>Executive Nurse Directors played a critical role during the COVID-19 pandemic. Six themes are explored: tensions, and adaptive response to personal leadership styles; uncertainty and support at the board level; responding to national political decision-making; the personal and emotional impact of the role and the sources of effective support; the voice and public profile of nursing; lessons learnt and strategies for future leadership development. Enablers of decision-making included effective multidisciplinary working, freedom from normal organizational constraints, support for innovation, and the development of stronger bonds with colleagues. Barriers to decision-making included limited knowledge of the virus and its impact and lack of guidance, particularly at a national level. Priorities, strategies and actions for recovery include recognizing the emotional impact of being in a high-level decision-making role, protecting staff from burnout and understanding the long-term implications of pandemic work for nurse leaders.<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>Future strategies for nursing leadership during public health, national and global emergencies are recommended.<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>This study contributes to the literature exploring the Executive Nurse Director role and their experiences of leading through the COVID-19 pandemic, and identifies priorities, strategies and actions for recovery and learning for the future of senior leadership.<BR><B>UNASSIGNED: </B>The study adhered to the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research.<BR><B>UNASSIGNED: </B>No patient or public contribution.