AIBU to consider this job opportunity?

[differentkindofpenguin]

So I have worked in the NHS, very frontline, blood-and-guts kind of job, for over a decade. I have enjoyed it thoroughly, but it doesn't make me happy anymore. Poor wages, poor morale, no chance of progression, working long shifts in a crumbling, short staffed hospital. As well as the nature of the job- it can be extremely sad, there is a high incidence of PTSD, stress, anxiety and depression in people who do my job.

So, I feel like I'm done. With my job, and sadly, the NHS.

The issue is, the NHS is all I've ever known. I am considering a job in the private sector, related to pharmaceutical industry so my clinical experience will be relevant, better hours, better pay, training opportunities etc.

So what I wanted to ask is, AIBU to consider this? Has anyone made this leap of faith and enjoyed it? Or am I being ridiculous and should stay where I am?

Thank you all in advance

Do what is right for you.
I know plenty of Drs who refuse to go private and plenty who do.
No one will judge you. You've served the public well so far. Be proud of what you've done whichever decision you make x

How does pension compare?

Depends on pharmaceutical firm and role. Some are every performance driven so hours may look good on paper but working extra is expected iykwim

It's not a sales job, and I didn't see any reference to working extra- not too sure though. Pension may not be as good-looking although my NHS pension is no longer what was sold to me, and I'll be lucky if I live to retirement age at this rate! Shiftwork is killing me. I'm hoping I can if not save then at least be less in debt with this job.

I would certainly never do what I do now in a private hospital( not that I could, the role doesn't exist afaik). This is a complete change, but it will build on my skills and experience

Do it do it do it! I too am in pharmacy and am about to leave a large NHS trust to go into training instead. I'm so relieved I can't begin to tell you. I've been at my new job a couple of weeks and can't believe how much more support, praise and recognition I've had already compared to the NHS.

Thanks thenaughtyone. I'm so far out of my comfort zone it will take me days to walk back!!!

Do it. Even if it turns out not to be right for you it will give you some time out. There will always be a job for you in the NHS if you change your mind.

Hey @differentkindofpenguin
I too was in the exact position as you. I actually wanted better pay and was offered a job in Saudi, but just before I was due to go, I had an offer from a private company which kept me here.
So I jumped ship from the wonderful NHS to a private company, still doing nursing but better wages, company car & other benefits.

My colleagues thought I was mad but on the other hand, we had another team member who had left for 2 years after working for a private company and returned.

NHS is fine but there's nothing wrong with going to a private company. There will always be a job for you there, I'm sure. And time away from that sort of job will do you good and if you miss the hospital, you could work bank/agency. You're not selfish for wanting a bit more.

Do what feels right

DO IT!
I've done it and has been the best decision of my life. My pension is slightly less but hey with less stress I might just live now to see some of my pension!

I think you should go for it. You have done your absolute best in the NHS so far and the stress/anxiety etc won't help with your ability to do your current job - over time it will affect your performance. I don't see any issue with people leaving in that scenario, it's better for them and for those they have been caring for. Good luck in your choice and thank you for serving the public.

I think you would be crazy NOT to take this job. You are more than ready to move on. This is a fantastic opportunity to take your career into a totally new direction. Don't blow this chance. And if it doesn't work out, so what? You can always make another change.

Thanks all. I have applied, will see how this pans out.

It's all a bit exciting, I feel no sadness or regret- I guess it's time.

Little update....I have an interview next week!

"relevant, better hours, better pay, training opportunities"

Sounds awful OP!

(Good luck, go get 'em!)

Also, what's the worst that can happen? You can always return to the NHS if you decide the private sector isn't for you. I used to work in the pharmaceutical industry but swapped to the NHS. I did enjoy the private sector, good people get recognition.

I am scared of the unknown. This job is wholly office based, I have only ever been clinical. I am ready for a change, but don't really know what it is I'm changing to if you know what I mean.

Also, i am the main earner in our family, we have 2 kids, a mortgage and a loan. If this goes massively wrong i will happily go back to my current job ( quite confident it will still be there), but I worry it's irresponsible of me to do this as logistics might make us short of money

My friend did a similar move managing the clinical trails for pharmaceutical companies. Earned double the wage for half the hours & expensive company car. She now does consultancy work earning £8000 for 4/5weeks work. She has kids now & only works when it suits her.

Wow chocolate!!! I can't even dream of that! I just want to be comfortable, and the prospect of never having to work another night shift again is magical :)

Do it. You know something, you can always change your mind.

@differentkindofpenguin How did you get on? Been thinking about you x