Ask the Executives - Peter Sutton

Ask the executives...

Peter Sutton

Director of Planning & Business Development

What is your role?

Director of Planning & Business Development and Accountable Emergency Officer, which means that I am the Lead for the Trust response to COVID-19.

What are the most important qualities you need to do your job?

Ability to look ahead and having a plan on how to get there. You also need to have a pragmatic approach as often you have to compromise and be flexible, particularly when working with so many people, teams and organisations.

Why did you choose to do it?

Too often in the NHS we are constantly dealing with the ‘here and now’ so the fact this role was aimed at planning, thinking ahead and working across so many different areas (both inside and outside the Trust) made it really attractive to me. It was a real privilege to get this job. The role is so varied including working with teams on their plans for the future and trying to turn them into reality.

What do you most like about it?

The people, the variety and making a difference. Our staff and teams are our greatest asset and getting to work with so many different teams and departments is a real pleasure. When we are able to develop a service and new ways of working, or invest in new kit and technology which leads to genuine improvements for our patients and makes a difference to our staff, that aspect of the job is particularly rewarding.

What is your favourite film?

Can’t say I have one favourite film but I must admit to enjoying sci-fi – films like the Matrix, Blade Runner, Inception and Interstellar.

What music do you like to listen to?

Really difficult to say one particular type and it changes over the years. Artists and groups such as Plan B, Massive Attack, Daft Punk and Coldplay are some of my favourites.

What are your hobbies and interests?

Sport (both playing and watching) and travel are probably my two main interests and even better when I can combine the two. I have been I have been a Sunderland season ticket holder for approx. 20 years, which can be quite painful at times. I learned to ski a couple of years ago, after snowboarding for 20 years and have started to play golf (very badly) as my days of playing football are coming to an end.

What is your most prized possession?

Can I class my dog as a prized possession? A couple of years ago we got a Pomspitz, which is cross between a Japanese Spitz and a Pomeranian (think small fox). Coco (I did not name her) thinks everything should revolve around her, but she is now part of the family and brings alot of fun to the house.