A Band 7 Ward Manager plays a pivotal leadership role within NHS hospital settings. This role bridges clinical excellence with strategic and operational management to ensure patients receive safe, high-quality care. Responsible for the day-to-day running of a ward or clinical area, a Band 7 Ward Manager oversees staffing, clinical standards, budgets, training, and the implementation of trust policies. They lead multidisciplinary teams, manage performance, and contribute to service improvement.
In 2024, the NHS Band 7 salary range typically falls between £43,742 and £50,056 per annum, depending on experience and location-based supplements (e.g. High Cost Area Supplements in London).
If you’re applying for a Band 7 Ward Manager position, preparation is key. Below are 20 common and high-impact interview questions along with suggested model answers to help you stand out.
Can you describe your leadership style?
Answer: I adopt a transformational leadership style—focused on inspiring, supporting, and developing my team. I lead by example, set clear expectations, and foster an open environment for feedback and innovation. This empowers staff and enhances patient outcomes.
How do you ensure high standards of patient care are consistently maintained?
Answer: I implement evidence-based practices, conduct regular audits, provide staff training, and encourage reflective practice. I also hold team debriefs to continuously improve care delivery and promote accountability.
How do you handle staff conflict on the ward?
Answer: I address conflicts promptly through one-to-one discussions, identifying the root cause while maintaining impartiality. I encourage open dialogue, mediate solutions, and involve HR if needed. My goal is to rebuild trust and maintain team cohesion.
Describe a time when you led a change initiative.
Answer: I led the implementation of electronic patient records on my ward. This involved training staff, troubleshooting tech issues, and adjusting workflows. I kept communication open, held feedback sessions, and monitored compliance. The change led to improved documentation and time efficiency.
How do you ensure safe staffing levels?
Answer: I use safe staffing tools like the Safer Nursing Care Tool, monitor patient acuity daily, and adjust rotas proactively. I work closely with the clinical site manager and utilise bank staff to fill shortfalls, ensuring both safety and budget compliance.
What do you understand by clinical governance?
Answer: Clinical governance is a framework ensuring accountability for maintaining and improving service quality. It includes risk management, clinical audits, education, and patient involvement—all integral to safe, effective care.
How do you support the professional development of your team?
Answer: I encourage personal development plans (PDPs), facilitate training opportunities, and support revalidation. I also conduct regular appraisals and mentor staff for progression into senior roles.
How do you manage your ward budget?
Answer: I monitor expenditure closely, liaise with finance teams, and ensure cost-effective resource use. I also identify areas for savings without compromising care, such as through efficient rostering or reducing agency dependency.
Tell us about a time you managed a serious incident.
Answer: A medication error occurred where a double dose was administered. I followed policy by reporting via Datix, supported the patient and staff involved, held a root cause analysis meeting, and implemented changes to prevent recurrence—such as revised checking protocols.
How would you improve staff morale?
Answer: I promote a culture of recognition, provide opportunities for growth, support work-life balance, and hold regular team meetings. Open communication, appreciation, and empathy are key to staff well-being and motivation.
How do you ensure compliance with infection prevention and control (IPC)?
Answer: I ensure staff adhere to IPC policies through regular training, audits, and visible leadership. I act immediately on non-compliance and encourage a ‘speak up’ culture where all staff hold each other accountable.
How do you prioritise tasks during a busy shift?
Answer: I triage based on clinical urgency, delegate appropriately, and continuously reassess workload. I remain calm, communicate clearly, and use handover tools like SBAR to ensure continuity.
How do you handle underperformance in your team?
Answer: I address issues early, provide clear feedback, and offer support such as mentorship or training. I set improvement goals and review progress regularly. If needed, I escalate to formal performance management processes.
What strategies do you use for effective communication?
Answer: I use structured handovers, regular briefings, and digital tools like shared task lists. I also practice active listening and encourage feedback to ensure clarity and transparency.
How do you promote equality, diversity, and inclusion?
Answer: I uphold NHS values by ensuring fair access to opportunities, challenging discrimination, and respecting all backgrounds. I promote inclusive recruitment and support staff networks to celebrate diversity.
How would you manage a patient complaint?
Answer: I listen actively, apologise if appropriate, and ensure the patient feels heard. I investigate thoroughly, respond promptly, and share learning outcomes with the team to improve practice.
What is your approach to safeguarding?
Answer: Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. I ensure staff are trained, follow protocols, and report concerns immediately. I liaise with the safeguarding team to ensure patient protection and staff support.
How do you ensure continuity of care?
Answer: I promote effective handovers, interdisciplinary collaboration, and detailed documentation. I ensure that discharge planning starts early and involves all relevant stakeholders, including the patient and their family.
How do you stay up to date with clinical best practice?
Answer: I regularly read NICE guidelines, attend training sessions, and participate in professional forums. I also encourage staff to share learnings during team meetings.
Why should we hire you as our Band 7 Ward Manager?
Answer: I bring strong clinical knowledge, leadership experience, and a passion for delivering patient-centred care. My track record in improving team performance, driving innovation, and supporting staff development makes me a strong fit for this role.
Final Interview Tips and Encouragement
Preparing for a Band 7 interview is about showcasing both your leadership potential and your ability to ensure high-quality clinical care. Here are some final tips to boost your confidence:
Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for structured answers.
Align responses with the NHS values: working together, respect, compassion, and commitment to quality.
Reflect on real examples that demonstrate your impact.
Practice mock interviews with a mentor or peer.
Be authentic—let your passion for patient care and team leadership shine through.
You’ve worked hard to reach this point. Walk into that interview with confidence, preparation, and purpose—you’ve got this!
If you found this guide useful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your peers preparing for NHS Band 7 roles. Good luck!
