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Life Sciences We are an award-winning consultancy shaping the future of healthcare. We bring a best-in-class team and future-focused approach; empowering clients, programmes and partners.
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The Smart Way:
Transforming healthcare through effective, clinically led digital systems.
We’re a healthcare consultancy. We work on projects, big and small, to help you transform your services and succeed. We’re a trusted partner with an established record of working in and alongside healthcare organisations. We have tried-and-tested methods for people-centred healthcare transformation, clinical engagement and benefits realisation.
We know where you’re coming from because we’ve been there.
Our clinically focused, people-centred approach will sooth your transformation journey.
Sustainable
We're experts with 20+ years' experience delivering digital transformation projects
We support you across the programme lifecycle from strategy to business case, procurement, to implementation and optimisation
We meet you where you’re at, whether by providing specialists to fill in gaps or a team of experts to hit the ground running
Once we’ve successfully delivered the plan, we’ll leave you with the knowledge and skills to keep improving the systems we built together
People-centred
We involve people affected by transformation, which is critical for success and required by the NHS
We connect with people’s needs and goals, understanding current challenges and designing future services
We share skills so you can continue to develop your people-centred digital capability as your needs change
Benefits delivery
Undertaking a huge project like implementing electronic patient records involves significant investment and risk
Our benefits realisation model has been tried-and-tested with healthcare organisations; generating benefits you wouldn’t otherwise find
Our people-centred approach is about working with those involved in transformation to
Understand the problem, people’s needs
Work together to imagine and develop future services
Share skills so you can continue to develop your people-centred digital capability as your needs change
Our Clients.
Dr Alastair Pickering
Group Chief Medical Information Officer, HUTH & NLAG
Heather O’Brien
Apollo Deployment Director,
Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust
John-Paul Birch
Digital Programme Manager, Health Informatics Programme, Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Head of Clinical Systems
Northampton General Hospital NHS Trust
The support we have had from SmartCo has been fantastic!
From the outset they have shared their expert knowledge of user-centred design. The team have driven local workshops with our staff at all levels in multiple clinical areas, all of which were very well received and have driven up enthusiasm for how digital, and specifically a modern EPR, can transform how staff work better for our patients. The team were enthusiastic and engaging throughout, producing an excellent final report that highlighted a number of key areas for us to deliver on for both quick fixes and medium to longer term solutions. I would wholeheartedly recommend working with this team
SmartCo worked with the Deployment team leads to identify the skills required to augment the team where gaps had arisen.
Resources with the right skills and accreditation were quickly identified and agreed deliverables are being met ensuring Programme deadlines are maintained. The SmartCo team were a pleasure to work with and the resources they provided have proved to be very effective.
We have worked with SmartCo for a number of years.
It’s a relationship that continues to strengthen as a result of the high calibre candidates they have placed with us. The Trust has approached SmartCo with varying role requirements, from Project/Programme Management, Clinical System Management and more recently Business Case development. The team at SmartCo are very personable, responsive and knowledgeable in terms of honing down a requirement when applying it to the market, which for the latter they have the greatest of insights.
SmartCo were able to successfully provide highly skilled resource at the height of the pandemic.
Working largely remotely, supporting the Trusts internal team SmartCo are helping us to achieve critical milestones in line with the project plan.
Our capabilities.
Individual specialists
Our experts from a pool of over 3,500 associates join your in-house team with a focus on sharing and embedding knowledge and best practice.
Teams
Delivering a project or programme with agreed outcomes.
Digital strategy
Setting out a roadmap for achieving a shared vision for the use of digital technology throughout the organisation.
Business case
Developing the case for change.
Procurement
Purchasing a new digital system.
Implementation
Large scale transformation of organisations through delivery of new digital systems, services and technologies.
Innovation
Establishing innovation frameworks and evaluating impact.
Optimisation
Improving a digital system over its lifetime.
Our Team.
Hi, I’m Paul. I work in partnership with healthcare organisations to deliver people-centred transformation that improves services for patients and staff.
I have 25 years’ transformation experience, with 15 years leading national programmes and services in the NHS. I’m a graduate of the Major Projects Leadership Academy, a high-risk review team leader and a mental health first aider.
I’m responsible for deploying teams into large scale digital programmes and projects. I focus on working in partnership with clients, understanding resource gaps and proposing project-based solutions, to ensure key milestones are achieved.
I lead on all aspects of client engagement throughout the full project lifecycle.
I am a Digital Health Innovator with 25 Years’ NHS experience across Best of Breed, Best in KLAS and Mega-suite EPR Strategies. With experience across systems integration, Major Project, Programme implementation and Strategy Development.
My career includes multiple 1st of types across the full spectrum of Acute Health Care Systems including Audio and Imaging Artificial Intelligence and Smart-Wearables.
I’m an experienced client engagement and delivery specialist within digital health. I’m responsible for developing and nurturing existing clients, project coordination and resource planning. I’m involved with all aspects of client accounts and projects from initiation to delivery, ensuring successful project outcomes. My focus is on developing relationships, solving problems and contributing to overall customer satisfaction.
I’ve been building project teams to deliver IT & Digital projects into healthcare providers for the past 10 years. These projects have varied from individual trusts to national initiatives.
I like to create meaningful and long-term relationships with clients and candidates alike, to deliver positive change for the NHS.
Zaib has extensive experience and knowledge of the digital healthcare landscape. She holds qualifications in Health Management, Health Finance, Business Analysis and Project Management, giving her a strong holistic understanding and experience on what clients and project teams need to deliver health projects successfully. As a Client Services Manager, Zaib works with the project delivery and client teams to ensure health engagements are being delivered successfully, whilst managing positive stakeholder relationships.
Henry is a qualified APM PMQ Project Manager with over 4 years’ experience in healthcare project management. Recently being involved in Client Engagement and engaging with digital health leaders on their digital programmes. Henry is involved with all aspects of client accounts and projects from initiation to delivery, ensuring successful project outcomes.
With over 10 years’ experience at SmartCo, Sally has played a key role in the development and refinement of SmartCo’s client services methodology and approach. With her primary focus on successful project outcomes, she is involved in all aspects of the delivery lifecycle and integrates closely with both associate and client teams.
I have over fifteen years’ experience working in the Healthcare IT market. I started my career as a Personal Insurances Broker before moving on to be a Talent Acquisition Manager for one of the leading Healthcare Management Consultancies in the UK.
During my recruitment career, I’ve built a network of over 18,000 Healthcare IT Specialists across the globe and am responsible for resource planning for all our current and future projects.
I’m an experienced IT programme manager with a track record of successful delivery in complex environments. I have experience of IT infrastructure, cyber security and transformation projects, with 17 years working in key roles on NHS programmes such as the Health & Social Care Network and South Local Clinical Systems programmes. My expertise covers the whole life cycle of programme management from business case development to implementation and transformation.
I’m an IT project professional with over 20 years of successful project delivery along with business development and proposition management experience. Predominantly within the Telecoms, Health, Retail and Banking sectors, covering enterprise-wide system implementations, technology transformation projects, data centre moves and the 2012 Olympic games.
George has over 10 years’ experience working within the digital healthcare industry. He has experience managing projects, complex successful bids (up to £20M+ TCV) and strategic operational improvements. George is responsible for ensuring SmartCo’s healthcare customers and partners are setup with the appropriate commercial frameworks which ensure best value for customers and statutory compliance. George is a qualified Agile Project Management Practitioner and is Amazon AWS accredited.
Lee Cummings
Operations and Contracts Manager
Curtis Evans
Client Engagement Analyst
Sebastian David
Epic EHR Lead Consultant
Lewiss Buckel
Project Resource Manager
Latest News
Unlocking Value with Rhys Hefford
We’re proud to see our CEO, Rhys Hefford, featured on the latest Garwood Growth podcast, discussing what it takes to build a business that’s scalable.
In the latest episode of Unlocking Value, Rhys joins John Howard, Garwood Growth, to explore what it really takes to build organisations that perform, evolve and endure.
Rhys shares how forward-thinking leaders can sustain momentum, plan for succession and design businesses that thrive beyond any one individual.
Key insights include: Building value early and focusing on what truly moves the needle
Preparing teams and structures for long-term success
Putting purpose at the heart of growth
Why letting go, at the right time, is a mark of great leadership
For leaders in professional services, it’s a powerful reflection on scaling with intent and creating impact that lasts. Read more and listen here: Episode 14: Rhys Hefford – Build, Scale, Exit, Repeat: A Serial Founder’s Playbook
Hannah Granshaw
12 November 2025
Oliver Kane Appointed as Managing Director
SmartCo Consulting is delighted to announce that Oliver Kane has been appointed Managing Director, following his successful time as Chief Operating Officer and Partner.
Since joining SmartCo, Oli has played a pivotal role in shaping our strategic direction, strengthening client partnerships and driving operational excellence across the business. His leadership, energy and commitment to our people and clients have been instrumental in helping SmartCo grow into the trusted consultancy it is today.
In his new role, Oli will continue to work closely with the leadership team to deliver high-impact outcomes for our clients, champion innovation and guide SmartCo through its next exciting phase of growth. “I’m honoured to step into this role and I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together over the past few years. I’m excited to continue working with our talented team as we build on that success and take the business forward.”
Oliver Kane, Partner and Managing Director Oli’s appointment marks an important step in our ongoing development to grow our consulting services and reinforce our reputation as a trusted partner for organisations across the UK and beyond. We’re excited to build on our successes, drive meaningful impact for our clients and shape the future of transformation. “Oli’s leadership and commitment have been central to SmartCo’s success. His deep understanding of our clients, commitment to our people and vision for the future make him the ideal person to lead our consulting operations. I’m thrilled to see him take on this role as we continue to grow and evolve.”
Rhys Hefford, CEO Congratulations Oli.
Hannah Granshaw
5 November 2025
Awarded ISO Certifications
We’re proud to share that SmartCo Consulting has successfully maintained our ISO certifications, completing both the Stage 2 ISO 14001 (Environmental Management) and Surveillance ISO 9001 (Quality Management) audits.
This milestone represents far more than compliance. It demonstrates our ongoing dedication to quality, sustainability and continuous improvement in every area of our business. From refining our processes and products to enhancing the positive impact we create for our clients, community, and the environment, these internationally recognised standards affirm that responsibility and excellence remain at the heart of everything we do. “Achieving these certifications once again is a true reflection of our team’s hard work, expertise and commitment. Their efforts ensure we continue to deliver high-quality solutions while reducing our environmental footprint.”
Oliver Kane, Partner A heartfelt thank you to our entire team for making this achievement possible. This achievement reflects our shared commitment to innovation, quality and sustainability.
Hannah Granshaw
21 October 2025
Welcome to Lewiss Buckel
We are thrilled to announce Lewiss Buckel has joined SmartCo as a Project Resource Manager. Wishing you a warm welcome from the entire SmartCo team.
We sat down with Lewiss to ask him a few questions about his career path, his role at SmartCo and what he’s most looking forward to about joining.
Hi Lewiss. What has been your career leading up to SmartCo?
Before SmartCo, I ventured into recruitment after taking some time off to travel. In that role, I helped NHS organisations across the Midlands by providing interim contractors for digital programmes. These ranged from large-scale EPR implementations to IT support desk operations.
What is your new role and key responsibilities?
As Project Resource Manager, I’ll be managing project resources and collaborating closely with clients to ensure the seamless delivery of digital healthcare programmes.
What excites you most about joining SmartCo?
I’m looking forward to getting stuck in – getting involved in current programmes, meeting associates and growing our associate network.
What makes SmartCo stand out?
SmartCo is a clinically led consultancy with deep, first-hand expertise built into the team. This gives clients confidence that we always prioritise their best interests. Our in-depth understanding of NHS operations, both locally and nationally, allows us to drive meaningful change and lasting impact.
How do you like to spend your free time?
I’m a Preston North End season ticket holder, so most Saturdays at 3pm you’ll find me watching football – although, given their form, I wouldn’t always say I enjoy it! When I’m not at Deepdale, I love heading to the Lake District for hiking and camping.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself…
Something people may not expect is that I can speak Spanish. I spent about eight months traveling across Colombia and Ecuador in 2022, where I picked up the language. While I’m a bit rusty now, I try to visit Spain once a year to keep practicing.
Hannah Granshaw
26 March 2025
Unlocking Value with Rhys Hefford
We’re proud to see our CEO, Rhys Hefford, featured on the latest Garwood Growth podcast, discussing what it takes to build a business that’s scalable.
In the latest episode of Unlocking Value, Rhys joins John Howard, Garwood Growth, to explore what it really takes to build organisations that perform, evolve and endure.
Rhys shares how forward-thinking leaders can sustain momentum, plan for succession and design businesses that thrive beyond any one individual.
Key insights include: Building value early and focusing on what truly moves the needle
Preparing teams and structures for long-term success
Putting purpose at the heart of growth
Why letting go, at the right time, is a mark of great leadership
For leaders in professional services, it’s a powerful reflection on scaling with intent and creating impact that lasts. Read more and listen here: Episode 14: Rhys Hefford – Build, Scale, Exit, Repeat: A Serial Founder’s Playbook
Hannah Granshaw
12 November 2025
Oliver Kane Appointed as Managing Director
SmartCo Consulting is delighted to announce that Oliver Kane has been appointed Managing Director, following his successful time as Chief Operating Officer and Partner.
Since joining SmartCo, Oli has played a pivotal role in shaping our strategic direction, strengthening client partnerships and driving operational excellence across the business. His leadership, energy and commitment to our people and clients have been instrumental in helping SmartCo grow into the trusted consultancy it is today.
In his new role, Oli will continue to work closely with the leadership team to deliver high-impact outcomes for our clients, champion innovation and guide SmartCo through its next exciting phase of growth. “I’m honoured to step into this role and I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together over the past few years. I’m excited to continue working with our talented team as we build on that success and take the business forward.”
Oliver Kane, Partner and Managing Director Oli’s appointment marks an important step in our ongoing development to grow our consulting services and reinforce our reputation as a trusted partner for organisations across the UK and beyond. We’re excited to build on our successes, drive meaningful impact for our clients and shape the future of transformation. “Oli’s leadership and commitment have been central to SmartCo’s success. His deep understanding of our clients, commitment to our people and vision for the future make him the ideal person to lead our consulting operations. I’m thrilled to see him take on this role as we continue to grow and evolve.”
Rhys Hefford, CEO Congratulations Oli.
Hannah Granshaw
5 November 2025
Awarded ISO Certifications
We’re proud to share that SmartCo Consulting has successfully maintained our ISO certifications, completing both the Stage 2 ISO 14001 (Environmental Management) and Surveillance ISO 9001 (Quality Management) audits.
This milestone represents far more than compliance. It demonstrates our ongoing dedication to quality, sustainability and continuous improvement in every area of our business. From refining our processes and products to enhancing the positive impact we create for our clients, community, and the environment, these internationally recognised standards affirm that responsibility and excellence remain at the heart of everything we do. “Achieving these certifications once again is a true reflection of our team’s hard work, expertise and commitment. Their efforts ensure we continue to deliver high-quality solutions while reducing our environmental footprint.”
Oliver Kane, Partner A heartfelt thank you to our entire team for making this achievement possible. This achievement reflects our shared commitment to innovation, quality and sustainability.
Hannah Granshaw
21 October 2025
Welcome to Lewiss Buckel
We are thrilled to announce Lewiss Buckel has joined SmartCo as a Project Resource Manager. Wishing you a warm welcome from the entire SmartCo team.
We sat down with Lewiss to ask him a few questions about his career path, his role at SmartCo and what he’s most looking forward to about joining.
Hi Lewiss. What has been your career leading up to SmartCo?
Before SmartCo, I ventured into recruitment after taking some time off to travel. In that role, I helped NHS organisations across the Midlands by providing interim contractors for digital programmes. These ranged from large-scale EPR implementations to IT support desk operations.
What is your new role and key responsibilities?
As Project Resource Manager, I’ll be managing project resources and collaborating closely with clients to ensure the seamless delivery of digital healthcare programmes.
What excites you most about joining SmartCo?
I’m looking forward to getting stuck in – getting involved in current programmes, meeting associates and growing our associate network.
What makes SmartCo stand out?
SmartCo is a clinically led consultancy with deep, first-hand expertise built into the team. This gives clients confidence that we always prioritise their best interests. Our in-depth understanding of NHS operations, both locally and nationally, allows us to drive meaningful change and lasting impact.
How do you like to spend your free time?
I’m a Preston North End season ticket holder, so most Saturdays at 3pm you’ll find me watching football – although, given their form, I wouldn’t always say I enjoy it! When I’m not at Deepdale, I love heading to the Lake District for hiking and camping.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself…
Something people may not expect is that I can speak Spanish. I spent about eight months traveling across Colombia and Ecuador in 2022, where I picked up the language. While I’m a bit rusty now, I try to visit Spain once a year to keep practicing.
Hannah Granshaw
26 March 2025
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