Send a text

In this episode of Public Health Spotlight, Callum Gardiner is joined by Mike Sandys, Director of Public Health for Leicestershire and Rutland.

Mike shares his unconventional journey into public health, beginning in health economics and shaped as much by circumstance as ambition. From warehouse work and NHS finance roles to research posts in Oldham and Salford, he reflects on how a chance opportunity spotted by his brother in a local newspaper set him on a path that would eventually lead to his appointment as a joint Director of Public Health.

Drawing on more than three decades of experience, Mike discusses how public health practice has evolved over time. From the early days of smoking cessation services and health promotion units to today’s digital outreach and targeted interventions, he offers a thoughtful perspective on how the profession has adapted to changing societal needs.

The conversation explores the unique challenge of serving both Leicestershire and Rutland two distinct areas with different populations, priorities and political landscapes. Mike explains the hybrid model he has developed to ensure both communities receive tailored, high-quality public health support, while navigating governance structures and maintaining strong political relationships.

He speaks candidly about the realities of being a joint DPH: the need for resilience, adaptability and strategic relationship management, particularly in the face of financial pressures, shifting political administrations and organisational change.

The episode also examines collaborative work with the NHS and wider partners, highlighting the complexities of cross-sector prevention agendas within constrained budgets. Mike reflects on his involvement in regional initiatives such as the Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HDRC), underlining the importance of research, community engagement and building capability across local government.

Listeners will gain insight into leading teams across both urban and rural contexts, the benefits of bringing services in-house, and the value of asset-based community development. Mike discusses the role of local area coordinators and why fostering a strong, collaborative culture is essential to delivering sustainable impact.

The episode concludes with personal reflections, from navigating the COVID-19 pandemic to championing bowel cancer screening and HPV programmes earlier in his career. Mike offers practical advice to those starting out in public health: play the long game, build partnerships, seize opportunities and have confidence in your contribution.

This is a frank and inspiring conversation about leadership in practice. A reminder that public health is shaped not only by data and strategy, but by people, relationships and a sustained commitment to improving lives and reducing inequalities one community at a time.

Subscribe for more leadership stories, public health insights and real-world impact from the Public Health Spotlights team.

Thank you for tuning in to Public Health Spotlight: A Panoramic Associates Podcast. For more expert discussions on public health, be sure to subscribe. Visit our website at panoramicassociates.co.uk to learn more about our work in the public health sector. This podcast is produced in collaboration with the Association of Directors of Public Health.