Shared leadership in integrated care networks: the case of “hub and spoke” networks in oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) in the English NHS

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore leadership in the context of the hub and spoke network in oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) in the English National Health Service (NHS).Design/methodology/approachThis paper is a conceptual paper using literature relating to the antecedents of shared leadership and relevant policy documents pertaining to both NHS policy and the development of OMFS. The paper is informed, theoretically by the conceptual lens of shared leadership.FindingsThe paper identifies the challenges that may be faced by policymakers and those involved in the hub and spoke network in developing shared leadership. It also reveals the implications for policymakers in developing shared leadership.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper is conceptual. It is acknowledged that this is a preliminary study and further work will be required to test the conceptual framework empirically. The paper discusses the policy implications of developing leadership in the hub and spoke network. As networks are of interest internationally this has wider relevance to other countries.Originality/valueThere is limited research on the antecedents of shared leadership. In addition, the conceptual framework is applied to a new policy context.