A new category for this year, this Award, sponsored by the Scottish Government, recognises a truly exceptional registered nurse who has made a career-long contribution to nursing practice, resulting in a legacy of sustainably improved outcomes for individuals, communities, and the wider population.
Ann Gow is a distinguished registered nurse whose career exemplifies excellence in nursing leadership, policy, and practice. Her contribution has been seen at local, national, and UK levels.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, she played a pivotal role at the NHS Louisa Jordan, overseeing the delivery of nursing services. Her innovative approach to workforce planning and workforce readiness led to the delivery of care to over 18,000 patients and the vaccination of nearly 10,000 NHS staff.
As the first Director of Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professionals at Healthcare Improvement Scotland she has played a key role in supporting the implementation of Scotland’s safe staffing legislation and the Scottish Quality Management System for Nursing and Midwifery. Her earlier appointment as Scotland’s first Nurse Consultant in Public Health marked her as a trailblazer.
From 2021–2023, Ann chaired the NHS Scotland Executive Nurse Directors, mentoring senior leaders and supporting the profession’s recovery post-pandemic. She continues to mentor UK-wide through key roles in the RCN Foundation, Florence Nightingale Foundation, and Queen’s Nursing Institute Scotland.
Ann's strategic and policy influence is extensive, including advisory roles in Scottish Government and national healthcare governance. Her recent work on the Perinatal Quality Management Systems reflects her passion for child health and tackling inequalities, with global recognition of her impact.
Congratulating Ann on winning this prestigious award, Anne Armstrong, Scotland’s Interim Chief Nursing Officer said: "Ann had made a significant contribution to nursing over many years across Scotland and the UK. She consistently focused on delivering innovative person-centred care, ensuring the needs of people using services was front and centre in all aspects of her work. A well deserving and well-respected candidate embodying the ethos of this award."
Congratulating Ann on her win, Colin Poolman, RCN Scotland Executive Director said: “Ann has made a significant contribution to the development of nursing as a profession, earning recognition and respect of her peers. She is acknowledged as a pioneer in nursing, with a career marked by innovation, leadership, and an enduring commitment to excellence in nursing, making her a standout candidate for this award for excellence.”
