Navigating Non-Linear Career Paths in Public Health: Lessons from Prof. Andrew Furber
The world of public health is changing. Gone are the days of neatly linear career paths where you’d spend your entire working life in one role. Today, leadership journeys are more dynamic, shaped by both passion and opportunity. In a recent episode of my podcast, Transformational Thinking for Health Leaders, I had the pleasure of talking with Prof. Andrew Furber, a public health leader whose impressive career spans multiple roles and continents.
Andrew’s journey is far from conventional. Starting as a GP with no clear career plan, he went on to work in Nepal for several years before returning to the UK, eventually becoming Regional Director of Public Health for the North West of England. Along the way, he faced setbacks, embraced opportunities, and built a career based on “serial mastery”—continually learning, evolving, and taking risks. In this blog, I’m sharing some of Andrew’s key career insights, which I know will resonate with many of you navigating your own complex leadership journeys.
Listen to the Podcast Here
The Rise of Dynamic Career Paths in Public Health
Public health careers no longer follow a rigid structure. The traditional model—education, a single long-term career, then retirement—has shifted to something far more fluid. As Andrew described, his career wasn’t meticulously planned; rather, it evolved through a series of roles and life experiences that kept building on one another.
This non-linear approach to career development—what I call “career epidemiology”—is becoming increasingly common. Public health challenges are complex, requiring a blend of skills from different disciplines. As leaders, embracing varied experiences helps us become more adaptable and innovative.
So, if you’re feeling uncertain about where your career is headed, take heart. You don’t need a perfect five-year plan. Instead, focus on what excites you, pursue opportunities that align with your values, and trust that each role will contribute to your long-term success.
Follow Your Heart (and Your Head)
Andrew’s advice to anyone making a career move is to listen to both your heart and your head. It’s a lesson he learned early on when he was offered an opportunity to work in Nepal. Despite the risks and challenges, he followed his passion for overseas development work. That decision shaped his entire career, giving him invaluable insights into the social determinants of health and cultural competence—both of which have been central to his leadership roles in the UK.
Passion doesn’t always mean taking huge risks, though. Sometimes it’s about recognising when an opportunity feels right for you. Andrew shared a story about applying for a Director of Public Health (DPH) role that he didn’t get. Instead of seeing it as a failure, he saw it as a chance to gain feedback and build confidence. Later, he secured an interim DPH role, which became a pivotal moment in his leadership journey.
For those of you on the cusp of transitioning to a leadership role, remember that opportunities will come in many forms. Some may not work out right away—but that doesn’t mean they won’t lead you to something even better.
The Importance of Mentors and Learning Networks
Andrew emphasised how critical mentorship and peer support have been throughout his career. Early on, he joined a learning set—a peer group of senior professionals navigating similar challenges—which provided invaluable guidance during major career transitions.
I couldn’t agree more. I often reflect on how mentors like Andrew helped me in my early leadership roles, and I’m committed to paying that forward by mentoring others today. If you’re moving into a senior role, I highly recommend finding a mentor or peer network to share experiences, exchange advice, and keep you grounded during times of uncertainty.
Building Resilience as a Leader
Leadership, particularly in public health, can be emotionally and physically draining. Andrew spoke about how the COVID-19 pandemic reinforced the importance of personal and team resilience. He maintains his own resilience through daily physical activity, setting boundaries around work, and scheduling regular breaks.
But resilience isn’t just personal—it’s also about creating an environment where your team can thrive. Andrew shared four key areas he focuses on to support his team’s well-being:
- Purpose – Ensuring everyone understands the importance of their role.
- Recognition – Celebrating successes, both big and small.
- Fulfillment – Helping staff see the impact of their work and grow in their careers.
- Belonging – Creating a culture where everyone feels valued and included.
As leaders, we have a responsibility to foster these conditions for our teams. When people feel connected to a shared purpose and supported in their roles, they’re more motivated, engaged, and resilient.
Public Health Careers Are Evolving
The public health workforce is expanding and becoming more interdisciplinary than ever. From pharmacists and psychologists to AI specialists, professionals from diverse backgrounds are contributing to complex health challenges.
Andrew noted that joint training programs, such as dual accreditation in general practice and public health, are gaining popularity. These transdisciplinary approaches will be essential as public health increasingly collaborates with other sectors to tackle issues like health equity and prevention.
Technology is also set to transform the way we work. Andrew shared his belief that AI will play a key role in tasks like needs assessments, freeing public health specialists to focus on interpretation and strategy. While it’s impossible to predict exactly how AI will reshape our roles, it’s an exciting time to be in public health—particularly for those starting their careers today.
Final Thoughts: Trust the Process
If there’s one takeaway from my conversation with Andrew, it’s this: trust your career journey. The path may not always be straightforward, but every experience—whether it’s a success, a setback, or a pivot—contributes to your growth as a leader.
As you continue navigating your leadership challenges, remember to follow your passion, seek support from mentors and peers, and prioritise both your well-being and that of your team.
If you’d like to hear more from Andrew, be sure to listen to the full podcast episode. And if you’re ready to take your career to the next level, visit my website at www.fionadayconsulting.co.uk. When you sign up for my newsletter, you’ll get access to the Health Career Success Programme—three hours of free CPD designed to support your leadership journey.
Here’s to your continued growth and success in public health!
Listen to the Podcast Here
Reflective Questions for Health Leaders
As you think about your own leadership journey and the themes explored in this blog, consider the following questions to help you reflect and take actionable steps:
- How has your career path evolved so far?
- Are there opportunities you’ve followed based on passion or intuition that have shaped your leadership journey?
- What are your key priorities for personal resilience?
- How do you currently manage your well-being, and are there boundaries or habits you could strengthen to avoid burnout?
- Who has been a mentor or role model in your career, and how have they influenced your leadership style?
- Are there opportunities for you to either seek new mentorship or become a mentor to others?
- What steps are you taking to create a supportive and inclusive culture for your team?
- How do you ensure your team feels a sense of purpose, recognition, fulfillment, and belonging?
- How prepared are you to embrace emerging trends and technologies, such as AI, in your field?
- What skills or knowledge might you need to develop to stay ahead of changes in public health and leadership practices?
Use these reflections to guide your growth as a leader and strengthen your impact on both your team and the communities you serve.
Listen to the Podcast Here
Dr Fiona Day is the world’s only Leadership Coach with advanced coaching psychology, medical and public health qualifications (MBChB, FFPH, BPS Chartered Psychologist in Coaching Psychology, EMCC Master Practitioner Coach & Mentor) and is in a unique position to help you and your teams to flourish. Fiona specialises in coaching medical and public health leaders, is a coach Supervisor, and an EQA Foundation Award Holder. Get 3 hours of FREE CPD with Fiona’s Health Career Success Programme here. Book a free confidential 30 minute Consultation with Fiona here. Subscribe and listen to her Podcast ‘Transformational Thinking for Health Leaders’ here.