Healthcare & Public Sector 
Consumer & Retail 
Media, Telco & Tech 
Financial Services 
Construction & Engineering We transform services through our people-centered approach. We have a strong track record of delivering projects, such as electronic patient records, for the NHS.
Learn more
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 focused on ensuring that our projects are completed to our clients’ expectations and that our teams love delivering them. I am approaching 20 years of designing and delivering digital transformations from the strategy and advisory side to leading large-scale complex delivery. My career includes all areas of health and social care in addition to financial services.
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 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’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 have 8 years’ experience in Project Resourcing and have spent the past 5 working in the public sector across IT, change and transformation, and procurement into Central and Local Government. I’m passionate about building long term relationships with clients and candidates, always ensuring to match their specific needs and expectations. I’m responsible for supporting all our consulting engagements here as well as helping to upscale our project delivery teams.
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.
I’m an experienced Project Manager of over 15 years delivering digital health projects into the NHS. I have extensive knowledge working with health-tech developers and I am able to demonstrate a clear understanding of the implications of digital change working with clinical and non-clinical staff. I am a hands-on delivery expert who strives to ensure the benefits of digital transformation are realised and adopted amongst patients and staff.
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.
Latest News
Long Lane Pastures Community Project
The SmartCo team recently had the pleasure of spending a rewarding day at Long Lane Pastures, a beautiful community garden in North London. Embracing the crisp Autumn sunshine, we rolled up our sleeves to make a meaningful difference.
Together, we cleared 18 barrowloads of foliage from the pond and tackled overgrown weeds, brambles and scrub in the Octavia Hill area, helping prepare the space for snowdrops to flourish and ensuring the pasture remains a vibrant haven for both nature and the local community. Donald, the chairman of Long Lane Pastures, expressed his gratitude, saying:
‘Many thanks to the staff at SmartCo Consulting. You have made a real difference.’
Beyond the physical work, the day also served as a reminder of the importance of connecting with nature and nurturing our mental well-being. At SmartCo, we’re deeply committed to fostering mental health, not just in our teams but also in the communities we serve. Initiatives like these not only strengthen our bonds as colleagues but also provide a moment of reflection, grounding and growth. A huge thank you to everyone who participated, for your hard work, teamwork and positive energy, making the day such a success. About SmartCo Consulting
SmartCo is a consultancy business specialising in the delivery of digital transformation projects for large private and public sector organisations. We are a people first business, prioritising employee well-being, flexible working and equal opportunities for all.
Hannah Granshaw
28 November 2024
Thriving in remote work with ADHD
I’m excited to share my journey at SmartCo as a remote working mother of 2, recently diagnosed with ADHD after several years of misdiagnosed post-natal depression. Since my diagnosis, I’ve discovered that challenges I once faced have become strengths, and I hope my learning can inspire others.
The Power of Task Lists and Clear Objectives
Living with ADHD means I need structure to thrive. Task lists are my lifeline, helping me break down work into manageable chunks. Tools like Trello and Planner keep me organised and on track. Clear objectives are crucial – knowing exactly what I need to deliver helps me stay focused and motivated. Without this, I easily become disengaged and often question myself as to what am I aiming for?
Deadlines: My Productivity Boosters
Deadlines are my best friends. They give me a sense of urgency and a clear timeframe to accomplish tasks. This helps me manage my time effectively and ensures I meet my goals without feeling overwhelmed. There’s no better feeling than ticking off the ‘To Do’s’ at the end of the day. I find this approach works at home too when I give myself 10 minutes to put the laundry away before my next call!
Spotting Improvements and Simplifying Processes
One of my superpowers is spotting inefficiencies. I can see where steps can be shortened, savings can be made, and processes can be simplified. Why make things harder than it needs to be? This knack for streamlining operations has given me access to lots of opportunities, and I enjoy it! Shameful to say this is not effective at home when I have Amazon, Netflix, Disney+ subscriptions which hardly get used!
The Importance of Effective Communication
I have worked remotely for 6 years now which works well for me for my work-life balance but it also means I rely heavily on effective communications. Effective communication is vital for everyone, not just those with neurodiversity or home workers. As companies grow and scale, maintaining clear and open communication channels is essential. At SmartCo, I champion effective and consistent communication to ensure everyone, whether remote or onsite, feels part of the team. Virtual ‘water cooler’ chats help foster a sense of community and keep us connected.
These are just some of my ADHD quirks, that have become the foundations of finding the right employer. I would always ensure that they can support me in these areas.
Supporting Neurodiversity in the Workplace
Employers can play a significant role in supporting neurodiverse employees. Here are a few ways: Flexible Hours: Allowing employees to work during their most productive times
Right Tools: Providing access to productivity apps and communication platforms
Regular Check-Ins: Frequent catch-ups (remote and onsite) to keep everyone on track
Training and Awareness: Educating the team about neurodiversity to foster understanding.
Supportive Culture: Promoting mental health awareness and providing resources About SmartCo Consulting
SmartCo is a consultancy business specialising in the delivery of digital transformation projects for large private and public sector organisations. We are a people first business, prioritising employee well-being, flexible working and equal opportunities for all.
Julia Hodgson
21 October 2024
SmartCo is an Awarded Supplier
SmartCo is a HealthTrust Europe Awarded Supplier
More great framework news for SmartCo. We’re proud to share that we’ve been successfully appointed to:
Lot 6 – ICT and Digital Consultancy Solutions and Advisory Services of the HealthTrust Europe (HTE) Consultancy Solutions Framework.
This achievement marks an exciting step forward as we expand our role in providing clinically-led digital transformation to healthcare providers. From advisory services to digital deployment and optimisation, we are committed to driving transformation and innovation across the healthcare sector.
This opportunity allows us to work even more closely with healthcare organisations, helping them harness the power of digital technologies to improve patient care, operational efficiency and overall outcomes.
‘We’re delighted to be awarded onto HealthTrust Europe’s latest professional services Framework. The framework was designed to support change in healthcare through digital transformation which mirrors our service offering. With upcoming changes in the procurement landscape, we must secure compliant and robust routes to market. This is another important framework for SmartCo and we are excited about supporting our NHS customers on it.’
George Jackson, Head of Commercial
Hannah Granshaw
6 October 2024
Maternity leave return to work
‘Don’t quit your daydream, it’s your life that you’re making.’
Lyrics that I listened to on repeat when I returned to work after my first child in 2022. I remember so vividly thinking to myself, Darcy why are you daydreaming about being a working mum? Surely, it’s a human right to have a work/life balance and be able to look after your own child that you just spent 9 months growing! Unfortunately, it would seem this isn’t always the case. Not necessarily because the options aren’t there, but because people feel so trapped they don’t even know they exist. Much like the position I found myself in, in August 2022. Returning to work with the expectation of being in the office from 9 – 5.30 and letting someone else raise my not even 1 year old. I remember thinking… ‘Maybe I can’t return to work, maybe being a stay-at-home mum is my only choice.’ Just how ridiculous does that sound. Well, that was until I was approached by SmartCo. The company that has given me my ‘daydream’ (however cheesy that may sound). Having a thriving career whilst being a present parent. Being able to do the nursery drop offs and pickups. Having the option to work from home or go into the office. Key there being, having the option, an essential part of being a return-to-work mum.
Let’s fast forward to January 2023… POSITIVE. We were expecting another bundle of joy in September 2023. But wait, work… I need to tell SmartCo. I’ve only been here 4 months… what will they say? I remember having the telephone conversation in March with HR and my line manager and finishing the phone call feeling relived. It would seem I had nothing to worry about and this call was shortly followed by a company wide announcement… ‘the maternity policy is to be reviewed’. Following this came a thorough working conditions assessment of my home working arrangement, the flexibility and encouragement to attend all required/suggested appointments and fantastic support company wide.
9th September 2023, I started my maternity leave at 5pm and went into labour at 7pm. What I like to call, working up until the last minute! This was then followed by 7 wonderful months of welcoming our new arrival into the world before my expected return to work date, 1st April 2024. A seamless return to work with a very helpful handover from my maternity cover who had joined us permanently during this time. As well as a great level of support from HR and the whole team in general. Which brings me to today, 5 months since I returned to work. My feet are firmly back on the ground and I have recently been moved into a new role ‘People & Culture Officer’ which has opened up so many great opportunities for me and allowed me to take on and own a handful of exciting projects.
I can proudly say that I am a full-time working mother of two beautiful young girls. I hope that one day my children know that I fought to be a present mum. I fought to aspire them to have a successful career. I fought for the life that unfortunately so many return to work mums don’t believe exists. It’s 2024, it’s time large corporations recognise the importance of mums returning to work whilst also being present in their children’s life.
About SmartCo Consulting
SmartCo is a consultancy business specialising in the delivery of digital transformation projects for large private and public sector organisations. We are a people first business, prioritising employee well-being, flexible working and equal opportunities for all.
Long Lane Pastures Community Project
The SmartCo team recently had the pleasure of spending a rewarding day at Long Lane Pastures, a beautiful community garden in North London. Embracing the crisp Autumn sunshine, we rolled up our sleeves to make a meaningful difference.
Together, we cleared 18 barrowloads of foliage from the pond and tackled overgrown weeds, brambles and scrub in the Octavia Hill area, helping prepare the space for snowdrops to flourish and ensuring the pasture remains a vibrant haven for both nature and the local community. Donald, the chairman of Long Lane Pastures, expressed his gratitude, saying:
‘Many thanks to the staff at SmartCo Consulting. You have made a real difference.’
Beyond the physical work, the day also served as a reminder of the importance of connecting with nature and nurturing our mental well-being. At SmartCo, we’re deeply committed to fostering mental health, not just in our teams but also in the communities we serve. Initiatives like these not only strengthen our bonds as colleagues but also provide a moment of reflection, grounding and growth. A huge thank you to everyone who participated, for your hard work, teamwork and positive energy, making the day such a success. About SmartCo Consulting
SmartCo is a consultancy business specialising in the delivery of digital transformation projects for large private and public sector organisations. We are a people first business, prioritising employee well-being, flexible working and equal opportunities for all.
Hannah Granshaw
28 November 2024
Thriving in remote work with ADHD
I’m excited to share my journey at SmartCo as a remote working mother of 2, recently diagnosed with ADHD after several years of misdiagnosed post-natal depression. Since my diagnosis, I’ve discovered that challenges I once faced have become strengths, and I hope my learning can inspire others.
The Power of Task Lists and Clear Objectives
Living with ADHD means I need structure to thrive. Task lists are my lifeline, helping me break down work into manageable chunks. Tools like Trello and Planner keep me organised and on track. Clear objectives are crucial – knowing exactly what I need to deliver helps me stay focused and motivated. Without this, I easily become disengaged and often question myself as to what am I aiming for?
Deadlines: My Productivity Boosters
Deadlines are my best friends. They give me a sense of urgency and a clear timeframe to accomplish tasks. This helps me manage my time effectively and ensures I meet my goals without feeling overwhelmed. There’s no better feeling than ticking off the ‘To Do’s’ at the end of the day. I find this approach works at home too when I give myself 10 minutes to put the laundry away before my next call!
Spotting Improvements and Simplifying Processes
One of my superpowers is spotting inefficiencies. I can see where steps can be shortened, savings can be made, and processes can be simplified. Why make things harder than it needs to be? This knack for streamlining operations has given me access to lots of opportunities, and I enjoy it! Shameful to say this is not effective at home when I have Amazon, Netflix, Disney+ subscriptions which hardly get used!
The Importance of Effective Communication
I have worked remotely for 6 years now which works well for me for my work-life balance but it also means I rely heavily on effective communications. Effective communication is vital for everyone, not just those with neurodiversity or home workers. As companies grow and scale, maintaining clear and open communication channels is essential. At SmartCo, I champion effective and consistent communication to ensure everyone, whether remote or onsite, feels part of the team. Virtual ‘water cooler’ chats help foster a sense of community and keep us connected.
These are just some of my ADHD quirks, that have become the foundations of finding the right employer. I would always ensure that they can support me in these areas.
Supporting Neurodiversity in the Workplace
Employers can play a significant role in supporting neurodiverse employees. Here are a few ways: Flexible Hours: Allowing employees to work during their most productive times
Right Tools: Providing access to productivity apps and communication platforms
Regular Check-Ins: Frequent catch-ups (remote and onsite) to keep everyone on track
Training and Awareness: Educating the team about neurodiversity to foster understanding.
Supportive Culture: Promoting mental health awareness and providing resources About SmartCo Consulting
SmartCo is a consultancy business specialising in the delivery of digital transformation projects for large private and public sector organisations. We are a people first business, prioritising employee well-being, flexible working and equal opportunities for all.
Julia Hodgson
21 October 2024
SmartCo is an Awarded Supplier
SmartCo is a HealthTrust Europe Awarded Supplier
More great framework news for SmartCo. We’re proud to share that we’ve been successfully appointed to:
Lot 6 – ICT and Digital Consultancy Solutions and Advisory Services of the HealthTrust Europe (HTE) Consultancy Solutions Framework.
This achievement marks an exciting step forward as we expand our role in providing clinically-led digital transformation to healthcare providers. From advisory services to digital deployment and optimisation, we are committed to driving transformation and innovation across the healthcare sector.
This opportunity allows us to work even more closely with healthcare organisations, helping them harness the power of digital technologies to improve patient care, operational efficiency and overall outcomes.
‘We’re delighted to be awarded onto HealthTrust Europe’s latest professional services Framework. The framework was designed to support change in healthcare through digital transformation which mirrors our service offering. With upcoming changes in the procurement landscape, we must secure compliant and robust routes to market. This is another important framework for SmartCo and we are excited about supporting our NHS customers on it.’
George Jackson, Head of Commercial
Hannah Granshaw
6 October 2024
Maternity leave return to work
‘Don’t quit your daydream, it’s your life that you’re making.’
Lyrics that I listened to on repeat when I returned to work after my first child in 2022. I remember so vividly thinking to myself, Darcy why are you daydreaming about being a working mum? Surely, it’s a human right to have a work/life balance and be able to look after your own child that you just spent 9 months growing! Unfortunately, it would seem this isn’t always the case. Not necessarily because the options aren’t there, but because people feel so trapped they don’t even know they exist. Much like the position I found myself in, in August 2022. Returning to work with the expectation of being in the office from 9 – 5.30 and letting someone else raise my not even 1 year old. I remember thinking… ‘Maybe I can’t return to work, maybe being a stay-at-home mum is my only choice.’ Just how ridiculous does that sound. Well, that was until I was approached by SmartCo. The company that has given me my ‘daydream’ (however cheesy that may sound). Having a thriving career whilst being a present parent. Being able to do the nursery drop offs and pickups. Having the option to work from home or go into the office. Key there being, having the option, an essential part of being a return-to-work mum.
Let’s fast forward to January 2023… POSITIVE. We were expecting another bundle of joy in September 2023. But wait, work… I need to tell SmartCo. I’ve only been here 4 months… what will they say? I remember having the telephone conversation in March with HR and my line manager and finishing the phone call feeling relived. It would seem I had nothing to worry about and this call was shortly followed by a company wide announcement… ‘the maternity policy is to be reviewed’. Following this came a thorough working conditions assessment of my home working arrangement, the flexibility and encouragement to attend all required/suggested appointments and fantastic support company wide.
9th September 2023, I started my maternity leave at 5pm and went into labour at 7pm. What I like to call, working up until the last minute! This was then followed by 7 wonderful months of welcoming our new arrival into the world before my expected return to work date, 1st April 2024. A seamless return to work with a very helpful handover from my maternity cover who had joined us permanently during this time. As well as a great level of support from HR and the whole team in general. Which brings me to today, 5 months since I returned to work. My feet are firmly back on the ground and I have recently been moved into a new role ‘People & Culture Officer’ which has opened up so many great opportunities for me and allowed me to take on and own a handful of exciting projects.
I can proudly say that I am a full-time working mother of two beautiful young girls. I hope that one day my children know that I fought to be a present mum. I fought to aspire them to have a successful career. I fought for the life that unfortunately so many return to work mums don’t believe exists. It’s 2024, it’s time large corporations recognise the importance of mums returning to work whilst also being present in their children’s life.
About SmartCo Consulting
SmartCo is a consultancy business specialising in the delivery of digital transformation projects for large private and public sector organisations. We are a people first business, prioritising employee well-being, flexible working and equal opportunities for all.
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