Real Life Story: Kelly Reid – Assistant Clinical Administration Manager
Kelly joined NHS Orkney in July 2008 as a Medical Records Officer after completing her Business Management degree at Orkney College. “I was looking for an exciting and busy administrative role,” she says. “The job offered variety and face-to-face interaction with patients and professionals, which really appealed to me.”
Over the years, Kelly’s career has grown significantly. “I worked in medical records until 2019, gaining valuable skills in consultant services, medical terminology, and waiting list management. When the medical records team became part of the new Clinical Administration team, I applied for the Clinical Admin Supervisor role and was successful.”
As services expanded, so did Kelly’s responsibilities. In June 2025, she was appointed Assistant Clinical Administration Manager, directly line managing seven teams within the department. “It’s been a great journey, and I’ve learned so much along the way.”
Kelly loves living and working in Orkney: “It’s a close-knit community where everyone rallies around to help each other. We’re spoilt for choice with beautiful beaches and amazing local produce.”
Her proudest achievement? Helping set up PHIO, an online physiotherapy service: “It allowed us to increase capacity for patients and improve local waiting times – a real win for the community.”
“Being part of the smallest NHS board in Scotland makes me proud. Despite financial constraints and rural challenges, the patient care here is excellent.”