Exceptional performance is rarely achieved through isolated initiatives or the heroic efforts of individuals. Instead, sustainable excellence requires a comprehensive management system that aligns people, processes, and strategic direction. Having observed this healthcare transformation effort, I've become convinced that the "three-legged stool" approach—integrating People, Process, and Plan—offers a powerful framework for healthcare organizations seeking to elevate performance across all dimensions.

We're excited to continue our leadership series with a compelling contribution from Kevin Stranberg of Stranberg and Associates. In this insightful piece, Kevin illuminates the often-overlooked yet essential role that non-clinical leadership plays in creating exceptional healthcare experiences. Building upon the shared governance principles explored in Jess Nuutinen's previous article, Kevin expertly demonstrates how non-clinical departments form crucial pillars in a healthcare organization's cultural foundation. His holistic perspective reminds us that exceptional patient care depends on every team member—from registration to housekeeping—working in concert toward a common mission. Kevin's thoughtful analysis of empowerment, collaboration, and accountability across departmental boundaries reflects his deep understanding of healthcare systems and organizational dynamics. We're confident his wisdom will provide valuable insights for leaders throughout your organization, regardless of their clinical or non-clinical roles.

Strong leadership in non-clinical departments of the healthcare system is essential to overall success.  Although most clinical departments generally have limited direct contact with patients, their efforts are important components of the overall culture of the organization.  Time and time again when patients are asked the question “did staff work together to care for you?” they include everyone they have come in contact with during their visit – registration, housekeeping, nutrition, patient financial to name a few.  As a leader of non-clinical staff, the focus of the work needs to be clear and important to every staff.  This focus centers on many of the same priorities listed by Jessica Nuutinen in the previous leadership article on Shared Governance – Empowering Healthcare Teams Through Collaborative Leadership for clinical staff leadership.

In our continuing leadership blog series, we're pleased to feature Jess Nuutinen's insightful exploration of shared governance—a cornerstone concept in modern healthcare leadership. Jess brings a wealth of experience to this topic, offering a thoughtful analysis of how collaborative decision-making transforms healthcare organizations. As Frontier Strategy Partners continues to examine diverse leadership approaches, Jess's perspective highlights how distributing authority and responsibility across all levels of healthcare professionals creates more resilient, innovative, and patient-centered organizations. Her practical framework for implementing shared governance reflects our commitment to providing actionable leadership strategies that can be applied across various healthcare settings. Join us as Jess illuminates this powerful approach that bridges the gap between frontline caregivers and organizational leadership.

Shared governance is a vital framework in health care and nursing that promotes collaboration, accountability, and empowerment among nursing staff and other health care professionals. By fostering a participative decision-making process, shared governance allows nurses to have an active role in shaping policies, procedures, and practices that directly impact patient care and workplace dynamics.

We're thrilled to announce a new weekly blog series focused on leadership from the diverse voices of our Frontier Strategy Partners team. Starting next Monday, March 10th, each week a different member of our team will share their unique perspective on leadership, drawing from their wealth of experience and expertise. This series aims to provide you with practical insights, strategies, and tools that you can implement in your own leadership journey.

Our first contribution will come from Craig Saylor, who explores "Essential Leadership Tools" - a thoughtful examination of how we can lead with intention rather than simply falling into established patterns. Craig challenges us to reconsider how we approach leadership positions and offers concrete strategies around mission-driven efforts, embracing facts, equipping our teams, and maintaining work-life balance.