Strategic Career Moves: How to Make Your Next Step the Right One

In the fast-moving and highly regulated world of healthcare and life sciences, career moves are often a natural part of leadership evolution. Whether you’re driven by a desire for more impact, cultural alignment, or personal growth, knowing when—and how—to take the next step is crucial.

But the smartest leaders don’t jump. They pause, reflect, and act with intention.

“The smartest career moves don’t come from urgency—they come from clarity, courage, and a commitment to your purpose.”

– Vanessa Meikle, CEO Hunton Executive 

Is It Time to Move On?

You might be feeling disengaged, overlooked, or uninspired. Perhaps your current role no longer challenges you, or the organisation’s direction no longer aligns with your values. These are important signals—not to react impulsively, but to stop and assess strategically.

Ask yourself:

  • Am I learning and growing in this role?

  • Do I feel connected to the organisation’s purpose and leadership?

  • Is my work environment bringing out the best in me—or draining my energy?

A career move made from clarity, not frustration, sets the foundation for long-term fulfilment.

The Three Essentials for Executive Clarity

At Hunton Executive, we encourage leaders to evaluate three core elements before making a move. These form the backbone of a grounded, future-focused career decision:

1. Self-Interest (Not Selfishness)

Are you driven by ego, or by outcomes that benefit your team, business, and sector?

Healthy self-interest means advocating for your growth and impact while staying aligned with organisational success. It’s about knowing what you want without losing sight of the bigger picture.

2. Self-Esteem

Do you believe in your leadership value?

Low self-esteem may keep you stuck in comfort zones. Overconfidence may lead you to chase the next shiny opportunity without alignment. True confidence is calm, measured, and underpinned by experience and self-awareness.

3. Self-Awareness

Are you in touch with how others experience your leadership?

Feedback is a gift. Great leaders invite it, reflect on it, and act on it. The most successful executives continually refine how they show up—because leadership isn’t static, it evolves.

From Reflection to Action: Your Next Strategic Move

Once you’ve taken time to reflect, it’s time to plan your path forward with focus. Here’s how to move from awareness to progress:

  • Clarify Your Why: What are you moving towards? A better culture? A broader impact? A new challenge?

  • Define Success: What does a successful transition look like to you—professionally, personally, and financially?

  • Activate Your Network: Engage mentors, advisors, and trusted peers. Let the right people know you’re open to opportunities.

  • Build Visibility: Make your strengths known through thought leadership, board engagement, or targeted outreach.

  • Stay Grounded: Avoid decision-making from a reactive place. Stay focused on alignment, not urgency.

Career growth isn’t just about change—it’s about the right change, at the right time, for the right reasons.

You’re In Charge of Your Next Chapter

You don’t need to wait until you’re burnt out or pushed out to move on. The most empowered transitions come from a place of strength and strategy. Whether you’re staying in your current role with renewed clarity or stepping into a new challenge, take time to stop, look, and listen—to yourself, your goals, and your environment.

At Hunton Executive, we support leaders in healthcare and life sciences to navigate career transitions with confidence, strategy, and discretion. Whether you’re actively exploring or quietly considering your next step, we’re here to help.

Let’s have a confidential conversation about your next move.

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