More clinicians are choosing to build careers made up of multiple roles rather than committing to a single, full-time job with one employer. These are often called portfolio careers — and they are becoming increasingly common across UK healthcare.
From GPs splitting time between clinical work and teaching, to nurses working part-time alongside bank shifts or consultancy, the traditional model of employment is evolving.
This shift is already affecting how employers recruit, retain, and structure their services.
Why portfolio careers are on the rise
Several factors are driving the change:
- Burnout has led some staff to reduce hours or step back from full-time clinical roles
- Flexibility is seen as essential, especially for those with caring responsibilities
- Younger professionals are more likely to pursue multiple interests or roles
- Technology has enabled remote working and private sector side work
For many, a portfolio career offers better control, more variety, and a more sustainable long-term balance.
What it means for recruitment
Employers often look for full-time, permanent hires. But this approach can miss out on strong candidates who prefer to work in different ways.
If you are hiring clinicians, therapists, or senior health professionals, consider:
- Offering part-time or job-share options
- Being open to fixed-term or sessional contracts
- Framing the role in a way that appeals to those with multiple commitments
- Asking candidates what flexibility they need, rather than assuming
Recruiting on the old model may limit your options. Flexibility is no longer just a perk — it is often a requirement.
What it means for retention
Supporting portfolio careers can help reduce attrition. Staff who are allowed to shape their working lives are more likely to stay engaged and less likely to leave the profession entirely.
That might involve:
- Honouring agreed rotas and contracted hours
- Being supportive of external work or study commitments
- Making career development accessible for part-time staff
Small changes in how teams are managed can have a significant impact on stability.
Planning ahead
Workforce planning needs to reflect the reality of how people want to work. Portfolio careers are not going away. In fact, they are likely to become more common as the next generation of health professionals looks for more balanced and varied career paths.
At Barrow Mount, we help healthcare employers think beyond traditional recruitment models. If you need help structuring roles to attract and retain the right people, we are ready to support you.
