Jackie Rayner

Background

About Jackie Rayner

My first experience of work was not one which I wanted to pursue… it was on the customer complaint hotline for a national shower installation company. Having no knowledge of shower installations, I felt totally out of my depth. However, travelling around the world in my early twenties was one of my most memorable experiences and a period of great growth on a personal level. I enjoyed the hiking, carrying my home on my back and experiencing the different cultures which I believe have had a lasting impact on my values and outlook on life. Sport has always played a big part in my life, from gymnastics at a young age (I could walk around a football pitch on my hands), to running, rounders, netball and then later on swimming at a competitive level where I achieved a gold medal in a Master’s Swimming Competition in backstroke. Having explored ladies football and recovered from a cracked rib, my latest venture is onto the tennis court. In terms of my career, I found my feet in a role at the University of Bristol in the Clinical Audit Unit working on a programme of accreditation for community hospitals. Led by Dr Charles Shaw, who was truly inspirational, the programme focused on community hospitals across the UK. Through setting standards and monitoring progress, it was clear to see the improvements made to the quality of care to patients, whilst also supporting and developing staff and providing a framework for good leadership. Continuous quality improvement is essentially what drives me forward. I am always looking for ways to improve and consider different approaches or methodologies that can lead to advancements. There are no problems, just challenges that need to be overcome.